Alcano seeks repeat in world 8-ball
Ronnie Alcano tries to become the first cue artist in 17 years to successfully retain a world title as the former double world champion opens his defense of the world tiara left in his hands in the 2008 World 8-Ball Championship today at the Amir Billiards Club in
“I’m ready,” said the 35-year-old lanky stalwart of the Bugsy Promotions of businessman Perry Mariano who came to prominence after winning World 9-Ball Championship.
“I’ve prepared hard for this, and I will do my best to keep this world 8-ball title. I know it’s going to be very tough but I’m confident I can make it,” said Alcano, who became only the second cue artist to reign in the World 8-Ball and World 9-Ball at the same time after Taiwanese Wu Chia-ching in 2005.
No player has successfully defended a world crown since American Earl Strickland won the first two editions of the World 9-Ball Championship in 1990 and 1991.
“I think Ronnie is the favorite to win again because 8-ball is his forte, and to beat him, you have to be at your best and with tons of luck,” said Mariano.
Alcano will be joined by current world No.1 Dennis Orcollo, 2007 World Pool runner-up Roberto Gomez and rising star Joven Bustamante in in this eight-day event that will gather 64 of the world best cue artists.
Like Alcano, Orcollo was given an outright seeding by the organizers for his runner-up finish last year, while Gomez and Bustamante barged into the main draw through the qualifying tournaments.
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