FRESNO, Calif.?Champion Jerwin Ancajas and challenger Jonas Sultan on Thursday tried in vain to play their parts as protagonists in a world title fight.
They didn?t smile and didn?t blink during the staredown, but most of all they didn?t shake hands when they went down the podium of Tioga Sequioa Brewing Co., here.
Truth is, they were thrust into the uncomfortable situation by the International Boxing Federation, which ordered the mandatory fight between the two Filipino power punchers.
Ancajas has knocked out 20 of his 29 opponents, while Sultan has stopped 9 of 14.
Of course, the lure of fame, glory and money can?t also be set aside.
On Saturday, they have to fight like true professionals, discarding their emotions and trying to beat each other to submission.
According to Sultan, he must focus on the task at hand.
?Jerwin is good and I admire his style, that?s why I studied his previous fights,? said Sultan. ?After all the hard work in training, I can?t afford to let this (world title) chance to go to waste.?
Ancajas gave a general answer: ?For me, it?s hard to face fellow Filipinos in the ring because they all fight with their heart.?
In earlier interviews, both fighters promised to pour it all out to realize their goals.
To remain as champion for Ancajas, who?s slowly getting used to the newfound adulation being showered him as heir to Manny Pacquiao?s throne.
And to become a champion for Sultan, a former streetfighter who?s willing to slug it out against anybody in the talent-laden division. With Ancajas as main target.
