BAGO City native ?King? Arthur Villanueva, the reigning World Boxing Council (WBC) International Super Flyweight champion, is in tough preparation ahead of his May 28 clash in the Pinoy Pride 36 at the St. La Salle Coliseum in Bacolod City.
Villanueva (28 wins and a loss with 14 knockouts), will face WBC Continental Americas Superflyweight champion Juan ?El Penita? Jimenez (22-9 with 15KOs).
The Negrense fighter said their final sparring session ends today and this early, he already feels the eagerness to return to the ring.
?I?ve yet to see my opponent?s fighting style. I still have to watch it. I learned that he?s a strong fighter, too,? he said.
Villanueva, who once lost his chance in the world title fight in the US, said that having this fight in May is a great opportunity for him to showcase what he got before his supporters in Bacolod City.
?I?m so happy for this privilege. Many of my friends were asking me when I?ll be fighting again here in Bacolod. However, I?ll be fighting in the 118 pounds this time from my original 105 pounds catch weight. My coach wanted to see if I?m ready for this weight class,? he added.
Right now, Villanueva is 13 pounds heavier but, said it?s just right until the fight date.
Villanueva is in the undercard of Donnie ?Ahas? Nietes? World Boxing Organization (WBO) World Jr. Flyweight title defense.
?It?s been my dream to fight again before my kababayans. It?s my way to thank my fellow Negrenses who have supported me,? Nietes said.
Also seeing action in the undercard is Milan ?El Metodico? Melindo (33-2 with 12KOs), former two-time world title challenger and currently ranked No. 4 in the International Boxing Federation Flyweight Division. He will face IBF No. 7 Javier ?Cobra? Mendoza (24-3-1 with 24KOs) of Mexico for the IBF Jr. Flyweight Eliminator. (HGD)
