Puerto Rico seems to be the location of choice for recent boxing training camps. The wonderful food, beaches, and weather are great selling points. I am just not sure how top notch athletes like Oscar De La Hoya, Miguel Cotto, Paul Williams, and Acelino Freitas, all who train in Puerto Rico, stay away from the tasty pasteles, lechon, and other tasty treats. Maybe their ability to not eat makes them excellent physical specimens, while, well, I am quickly turning into a large Marley-like mound.
Acelino Freitas, promoted by Artie Pellulo?s Banner Promotions, is in the midst of preparations for an April 28 HBO showdown with lightweight Juan Diaz. The Brazilian icon will enter the ring on the night after a one-year lay-off, but Oscar Suarez, Freita?s Puerto Rican trainer, does not see the extended time off as a determent.
“The lack of activity is made up in the gym,” said Suarez. “We have had a really strong training camp here in Puerto Rico and Acelino stays in shape when he is in Brazil. He owns three gyms in Brazil and constantly stays in the gym and plays soccer regularly.”
Suarez also informs Boxing Confidential that Jose Reyes has provided Freitas with some key sparring during training camp and Suarez is preparing Freitas for anything young Diaz can throw at the thirty-one year old veteran.
“I do not think Juan will be his usual self against Freitas,” said Suarez. “I do not think he will come to us as much as he has in other fights against other guys. Diaz is a quality guy, he can box, he can counter, and his is very persistent.”
