IBF world jr.flyweight champion Johnriel Casimero (16W-2L, 10KOs), will leave for Mexico on Monday for his scheduled title defense against undefeated challenger Pedro “Jibran” Guevara (18W-0L-1D, 13KOs) of Mexico on Aug. 4, at the Centro de Convenciones in Mazatlán, Sinaloa, México.
“I am in excellent condition,” Casimero told CDN during a short interview yesterday. “The frequent postponements did not affect me. I kept my weight down because I controlled my diet. I have been training since May.”
Trainer Christopher Tepora said he has seen a video of Guevara online, a 12-round draw against countryman Mario Rodriguez who lost to Filipino world champion Donnie Nietes by unanimous decision in a WBO minimumweight title fight two years ago.
“I have studied Guevara’s fight against Rodriguez,” Tepora said. “I noticed he moves a lot but his style is very similar to Erik Morales.”
Guevara is a protégé of the legendary Mexican boxer known for his epic trilogy against Manny Pacquiao. Guevara – who is an NABF titlist as well as WBC Silver Jr. Flyweight champ- has frequently appeared in fights promoted by Morales’ boxing promotion Box Latino.
Casimero is remembered by boxing fans for the controversial Feb. 10 fight in Mar del Plata, Argentina, where he knocked out local boy Luis Lazarte in round 10, only to be mobbed by an angry crowd who chased him and his team while throwing chairs and bottles into the ring.
He was awarded the interim title but was officially recognized as the regular champion last July 19. This will be his first title defense.
In his last visit to Mexico two years ago, he lost his interim WBO lt.flyweight crown to Ramon Garcia Hirales by split decision.
“It was very hot that day,” Casimero recalled, “It’s hot here in Cebu, but there, even the air I was breathing felt hot. I ran out of gas in the later rounds. Now, I am better prepared,” Casimero said. “I will try my best to remain world champion.” /correspondent Rene Bonsubre Jr.