One by one, the Mexican legends have fallen. Barrera, Morales, Marquez?all coming up short in trying to stop the Pinoy idol, Manny Pacquaio. But now undefeated WBO 130?pound champion Joan Guzman is shopping for a bandera de Mexico and a sombrero.
Yes, it?s true. Dominican Republic product Guzman loves Mexico!
So much so that he tells Boxingconfidential that he will bring the red, green and white Mexican banner into the ring along with his constant Dominicano flag if and when he gets an opportunity to fight Pacquaio.
?Don?t get me wrong,? Guzman said. ?I have nothing but respect for Manny and for his marvelous delegation of fans. The Filipinos are comparable to all those Ricky Hatton fans from England in their loyalty and devotion to their hero, That is something to be admired and I know every fighter would like to have such backing.?
But Guzman said he would pick up the fallen Mexican banner and take it into battle with Pacquaio.
?This idea came to me the other day. I am training in Las Vegas for my mandatory title defense against Alex Arthur in Scotland May 3. My manager, Jose Nunez, and I were at my barber shop and the barber, who is a huge fight fan, is a Mexican guy. He suggested that I represent my country and Mexico against Pacman. I say, why not?
?I just fought a rough, tough Mexican in Humberto Soto,? Guzman said. ?I see him as a definite world champion someday soon. I?ve fought other Mexicans and they all come to fight. I respect Mexico and its fighters and fans. So I would gladly represent them.?
Another Mexican ?connection? is that he has handwrapping expert and trainer Rafael Garcia in his corner. You may know the diminutive Garcia as the fellow who always wears the cap covered with flag pins.
?Viva Mexico! Viva Philippines! And viva La Republica Dominicana!? Guzman said.
