FORMER WBO Asia Pacific super featherweight champion Jimrex “Executioner” Jaca has definitely learned his lessons the hard way in his 12-year professional boxing career.
After hopping from one manager to another and being labelled a journeyman, Jaca finally decided to return to ALA Boxing Promotions where his dreams of becoming a top boxer started.
Thanks to ALA Boxing Promotions, Jaca (34-6-3,19KOs) got a second chance to revive his boxing career by featuring him in the undercard of Pinoy Pride XV: Philippines vs. Mexico: The Rematch against Mexican Angel Martinez (13-2-1, 9KOs).
The Aug. 18 card will be held at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino.
Considered as local boxing’s prodigal son, Jaca promised to change that not so pleasant image.
“Not everyone know that I am not just a fighter. I also have a wife and a child to support. Yes, I have been criticized for being disloyal for jumping from one promoter to another, but I am thankful to ALA for giving me another chance,” said Jaca who left ALA Promotions in 2010.
“I have already apologized to Sir Tony Aldeguer and ALA Promotions President Michael Aldeguer for what happened in the past. They understood me and gave me another chance to prove that I can do it. And I won’t waste this opportunity as this could be my last,” said Jaca.
It was found out in an interview that true enough, Jaca underwent some very tough times in 2010. His wife was having problems with her pregnancy resulting in several trips to the hospital. He kept these distractions to himself and never opened up. He and his wife eventually lost their child due to premature birth.
Now, the Negros Occidental-born boxer is getting a new lease on his boxing life and vows never to put this chance go to waste as he trains with renewed vigor for his Aug. 18 bout with Martinez.
It seems Cebuano boxing fans are about to see a new and inspired Jaca. /CORRESPONDENT DALE G. ROSAL