Ruiz: I’m gonna knock Bautista out so bad

Mexican Heriberto “Cuate” Ruiz reiterated his earlier promise to score a repeat victory over Filipino Rey “Boom-Boom” Bautista in their much-anticipated rematch in the main event of this Saturday’s “Pinoy Pride 6: Grudge Rematch” at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino.

During yesterday’s press conference at the Mooon Cafe at the Asiatown IT Park, Ruiz said he will defeat Bautista the same way he beat him the last time they met in 2008 in Las Vegas. Both are eyeing the IBF International Featherweight title.

“I am gonna knock him out so bad. I will repeat what happened in our last fight,” said Ruiz, who was accompanied by his trainer Heriberto Siulok Ruiz and manager Fernando Dominguez during the presscon.

Ruiz, who holds a 46-10 (win-loss) record with 28 knockout victories, said he is very confident because of his intense preparation for the fight. He claimed to have sparred more than 280 rounds with elite boxers in Sinaloa, Mexico within his three-month training camp.

“The first fight was great. This Saturday, it will be better because I am going to win. I am the kind of fighter who likes to be pressured,” added Ruiz.

Bautista, who sports a 30-2 card with 23 KOs, has remained silent despite the predictions of Ruiz.

Ruiz’s manager Dominguez is also confident of his ward’s chances. “The question right now is if Boom-Boom is ready. Has he totally recovered?” Dominguez said.

Joining Ruiz yesterday was fellow Mexican fighter 24-year-old Juan Carlos Gallegos, who is set to face Filipino Jason Pagara (26-1-15 KOs) in the undercard of the Bautista-Ruiz main bout.

Gallegos arrived here with his trainer Herminio Ramirez Vega, the older brother of veteran Mexican boxer Rosendo Vega.

On the other hand, Indonesian Benja Loemoli (11-1-7KOs) arrived yesterday afternoon. He will face Filipino WBC silver world champion Edrin Dapudong (21-3-12KOs) in the under card.

The visiting fighters will hold a public workout session today at the Parkmall in Mandaue City starting at 5 p.m. /with editorial assistant Calvin Cordova