Every fighter is different leading up to a big fight. Some athletes become tightly wound and slightly agitated, perhaps showing signs of frustration from either a grueling training camp full of discipline or the struggle of making weight. Some pugilists remain quiet and completely focused, staying in their own zone as their bout approaches. And in some cases you will notice that the fighters at hand are so care free and relaxed that you wouldn?t be able to identify the daunting task that awaits them.
With less than a week to go before he defends his WBO Featherweight crown against tough Filipino Bernabe Concepcion, champion Juan Manuel Lopez seems to be completely at peace with the world. The 27-year old was recently spotted at the Centro Comercial Plaza del Caribe in Ponce, Puerto Rico signing autographs and interacting with his fans. Lopez no longer has to struggle to make 122 pounds and seems very comfortable in his new weight class. The adoration and appreciation he received from his supporters was obvious.
A native of Rio Piedras, Lopez has carved out an impressive 28-0 record with 25 stoppages while carrying with him the rich tradition of boxing that comes from his native land. Such fighters as Wilfredo Benitez, Felix ?Tito? Trinidad, Miguel Cotto and countless others have all spent their time carrying the torch for Puerto Rican boxing and Lopez figures to be next in line.
Lopez is loved in Puerto Rico but can?t be looked at as a superstar in the sport as of yet. A lot of his future is riding on his July 10th clash with Concepcion and that doesn?t figure to be an easy contest in the slightest, given the Rizal native?s power and determination. Concepcion is coming off of a ten round decision over Mario Santiago this past February at the Hilton in Las Vegas, Nevada, that helped secure his date with Lopez.
For images of Juan Manuel Lopez interacting with his fans please check on the slideshow below?
