RandyY “Kumo’ng Bato” Suico is getting near boxing stardom, but blocking his way is a skilled and very talented champion –– Juan Diaz of Texas.
Today, Suico will challenge the undefeated Diaz for the WBA lightweight title under the Shane Mosley vs. Fernando Vargas rematch at the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.
If physique and punching power would be the gauge, victory is going Suico’s way. He towers over the 5-foot-6 Diaz and owns a wider and firmer body, but to bookmakers in the US, the Mandaue City native only has a slim chance of beating Diaz.
“But I believe Suico has a good chance (of winning the title),” said his former mentor Antonio Aldeguer, who once guided Suico’s amateur stints and promoted his early professional fights.
Flaws
“I have studied the previous fights of Diaz and I saw some flaws in his defense. I believe his handlers had also seen this and this is where they would attack Diaz,” Aldeguer added.
Aside from his trademark strong punches, Suico is also very durable and if he could match the speed and agility of Diaz, the WBA belt could be his.
The card, which is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and Main Events, also features Daniel Ponce de Leon defending his WBO super-bantamweight title against Thai Sod Looknongyangtoy.
Both Suico (24-2, 21KOs) and Diaz (29-0, 14KOs) tipped the scales at 135 pounds in yesterday’s official weigh-in sessions.
Before heading to Las Vegas, Suico had a week-long training and sparred with Carlos Famoso Hernandez, Urbano Antillon and Jose Luis Sotto at the Maywood Gym before pushing for his final preparations.
“I pray and wish for Randy’s victory and I hope he could be the first ever Filipino boxer to win the lightweight title,” Aldeguer said.
