Casimero all set for title defense on homeground

CEBU, Philippines - IBF light flyweight champion Johnriel "Quadro Alas" Casimero (19-2, 10KOs) promised to defend his title once again as he takes on mandatory challenger Mauricio Fuentes (16-2, 10KOs) on May 3 at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino.

Casimero said just like his other defenses, he will do his best to emerge victorious and keep his belt strap around his waist.

“My training for this fight is great,” said the Ormoc City-native fighter. “Right now, I can say that I am ready for him (Fuentes) and hopefully I will win impressively.”

The 22-year-old Casimero is coming off an 11th round demolition of Mexican challenger Felipe Salguero on October 26 last year at the Makati Coliseum.

Casimero is one of remaining three world crown-holders of the Philippines after WBO welterweight champion Manny Pacquiao and WBO light flyweight king Donnie Nietes.

On the other hand, Omega Boxing Gym trainer Christopher ‘Pingping’ Tepora admitted that they would be dealing with a tough challenge from Fuentes.

Tepura, however, expressed confidence that the Colombian would fail in his goal of dethroning the Pinoy champ.

“Of course Fuentes would be a tough one because he would not be a mandatory challenger for nothing,” said Tepora. “But Casimero trained hard for this fight and my boxer will show how strong he is during fight night.” (FREEMAN)