John Riel Casimero is frighteningly strong.
But with six weeks before he faces Paul Butler in Dubai on 11 December, the reigning World Boxing Organization (WBO) bantamweight champion has way too much excess baggage that he needs to get rid of.
“Last time we checked the scales, he was 140 lbs,” former world champion Manny Melchor told Daily Tribune in Filipino yesterday.
Melchor feels Casimero, who fights in the 118-lb ranks needs to cut down in weight fast.
“He’s big and he has to get his weight down,” Melchor said.
Back in the days, Melchor, who hails from Mindoro, was good enough to win and briefly hold the International Boxing Federation minimumweight title in 1992.
But there’s one thing that Melchor was raving about Casimero.
“He’s very, very strong,” Melchor, now 52, and a longtime resident of Chula Vista in California, said.
“No wonder that once Casimero lands a big shot, his opponents fall down like I’ve never seen before.”
Casimero has been in the United States for about a week and when Melchor held the mitts during one training session at the City Boxing in San Diego, he marveled at his power.
“Hits like a heavyweight,” Melchor said.
Of course, Melchor was simply exaggerating but his sterling review of Casimero’s superior strength is one thing that he could not deny.
Since arriving in the United States from Manila, Casimero has reported for daily training at City Boxing where Melchor is the lead trainer.
Owned by Baruch Ferreira, City Boxing functions not only as a boxing facility and MMA training ground but a fitness center as well, according to Melchor, who retired from boxing in 2003 after compiling a 38-35-6 record with six knockouts.
As Casimero prepares for Butler, Melchor insists he will be offering his helping hand to the WBO champion without any conditions.
“I am here to help him get ready, that’s all,” Melchor said.
In the past, Melchor suffered many a heartaches with boxers and MMA practitioners.
“I have lost fighters who I helped improve their boxing skills. They all left after learning and improving their craft.”
While there is not much to change as far as Casimero is concerned, Melchor swears he is excited to provide a few tips while he watches over the preparation.
Melchor is not asking a lot from Casimero.
All Melchor wants is respect and probably a stint as one Casimero’s seconds during the Butler battle.
Besides, Melchor is a US passport-holder.
“If they asked me to join, I will go with them. It’s really up to them.”
Casimero’s buildup is being handled by his brother Jayson and cutman Stephen Lunas, who is Melchor’s friend.
So, when Casimero heads to the Middle East next month, don’t be surprised to see the pint-sized Melchor dressed for battle as well.
