Entering their biggest fight to date, Richard Pumicpic’s camp remains unfazed as their prized fighter enters the biggest challenge of his life.
Pumicpic (18-7-2, 6KO) is set to take on Cesar Juarez (18-5) on Sunday, October 30 (Philippine Time). Pumicpic’s coaches are confident that they have a fighting chance against the Mexican in enemy territory. Even if the Filipino will enter as a huge underdog entering the bout.
“‘Ego’ yun style ni Richard being shorter than most of his opponents,” said coach Jefferson Linay to Tiebreaker Times in an online interview, describing his ward’s relentless fighting style. “Gustong gusto niya na siya yung mas maliit over his opponents.”
“Hindi pa nakakalaban si Juarez sa mga nakita naming mga videos na lumalapit sa kanya at eto yun style ni Pic.”
Before heading to Mexico, the team spent a few days in Los Angeles to train under Marvin Somodio, a known assistant to famed boxing coach Freddie Roach. There, they focused on further improving the 26-year-old’s conditioning and defense to be able to compete with Juarez’ high volume offense that has pushed WBO Super Bantamweight champion Nonito Donaire to the limit and knocked the lights off then-undefeated Albert Pagara in his last two fights.
“Dagdag kunditioning pa at depensa sabay pagcounter sa katawan in Juarez ang tinutukan namin kasi yun ang istilo niya na maraming tapon na suntok,” he shared.
“(We) constantly remind him to pressure and be smart when engaging Juarez toe-to-toe.”
More than anything, Linay says that this fight will be a testament of the Filipino’s resilience in the sport. More than anything, they will do everything they can to best represent the country in the ring.
“Ito ay pinaka mabigat na challenge sa kanyang career at dito mapapatunayan ang tibay at tapang niya sa boxing community.”
