MANILA, Philippines – Before last Wednesday’s press conference, the closest Brian Viloria has gotten to Carlos Tamara was in front of the television set, watching videos of the Colombian’s previous fights.
“I’ve seen videos and footages of him. That’s all,” said the Fil-Hawaiian champion who will stake his IBF light-flyweight crown against his younger, taller and hungrier opponent tomorrow at the Cuneta Astrodome.
They stayed close to one another during the Manila Hotel presscon, trading smiles and good words before then vowing to put on a show for the fans to enjoy. Viloria said he’d do anything to hold on to the crown.
“But Carlos is a tough fighter so I see the fight going 12 rounds, from the opening bell to the final bell,” said the 29-year-old Viloria, who said he can only start planning his immediate goals after this fight.
“As long as I get through Saturday,” said the 2000 Olympian,” then I can think about the future.”
At his age, Viloria said thoughts of retirement have crossed his mind. But he was quick to dispell the possibility because he feels he’s in the greatest shape possible after going through some rough sailing three years ago.
“I’ve been boxing since I was five, and that means I’ve been boxing for 24 years now. Of course there will come a point when I will feel I need to hang up my gloves, while I’m still young and able to walk,” he said.
“I will find the right time to retire. But right now I’m feeling great,” said Viloria, who has other options left outside of boxing, being a broadcast journalist major.
“Maybe I can do what you’re doing, asking questions to fighters or maybe I can be president of the United States,” he said chuckling. “But I will think about that when it materializes. Now I’m concentrating on being the best.”
That’s the reason why Viloria said he treats every fight like it was his last fight.
Tamara, just 26 and hungry to win a world title, trained hard for this fight, which he described as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
“I’m mentally and physically prepared. I’m going to give it all and I’m prepared to bring home the title,” said Tamara who sees no problem him making 108 lb this morning during the official weigh-in at the Manila Hotel.
Tamara is also an Olympian, being there in 2004 in Athens. But like Viloria, known as “The Hawaiian Punch,” he failed to get past the second round. Still, it makes the fight even more exciting.
“Yes, we’re both Olympians. And it’s going to be a great fight for sure. It’s going to be exciting. I wish Tamara all the best.” said Viloria.
