Two-division world champion Guillermo Rigondeaux gave insight into his training camp as he prepares to take on WBO Bantamweight World Champion John Riel Casimero on August 14 in the main event live on SHOWTIME from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.
Here is what Rigondeaux had to say about training camp with Ronnie Shields and more:
On his upcoming matchup with John Riel Casimero:
“It has been a very focused camp, and I have found inspiration watching the Olympics, and it has lit a spark in me. Winning two gold medals in my early years gives me added incentive to win this fight. I want to prove to the world that I am one of the best boxers ever and that I have a lot left to give in this sport. I am confident that I am going to do that against the most avoided fighter in my weight class. Casimero is a dangerous fighter and a very powerful puncher, but I’m going to tame him with great boxing skills.”
On his recent training camp with coach Ronnie Shields:
“Training in Texas with Ronnie Shields has been great and our energy working together is fantastic. Ronnie has had a lot of world champions, and has a very professional boxing gym, with a lot of world champions and fighters who are competing at the highest level of the sport. I am motivated to work hard, not just to reach my own goals, but by all the young fighters in the gym who are driven and focused. The atmosphere has brought something new out of me. I’m revived and feeling young again.”
On fighting for the WBO world title:
“It always feels good fighting for a world title, and I have had the WBO title before after I beat Nonito Donaire, but this time I’m going up against a hungry young lion. I am looking to capture another world title, and give another great fight that fans will talk about for years.”
On returning to the ring after a year-long layoff:
“I feel good. I think at this point in my career, all the time away from the ring helps. I know how to fight and I know how to train, the big thing is knowing how to recover, and not damage my body. I am doing a good job at staying sharp in the gym, but not overtraining. A win against Casimero will do wonders for my career.”
Rigo one amazing, well schooled fighter. Art in motion.
Agreed. I hope he wins. JR Casimero is a helluva good fighter but Rigo is supremely skilled and he never recieved the appreciation of the fans.
Some fans are not loving the sport for what it is, art.. They just want to see violence, blood and knockouts..
I think this is somewhat unfair to some fans. I can appreciate Rigo’s skill, but can understand why people get frustrated with him. He is all too willing to just shut down and go on auto pilot instead of take the initiative even when he’s dominating, which can create real snoozers. I get it, safe and smart, but still understandable from the perspective of someone who forked over cash to watch the match. When he steps up and puts on a masterclass like vs Donaire, people definitely appreciate him.
I also think despite his obvious high skill, he’s sort of one dimensional. Even against some of his lesser opponents, when he’s put into an uncomfortable position he kind of folds and struggles. He has no plan B or C, its A or bust. Generally this makes no difference at all because his A is so damn good to begin with.
Rigo is an example of why a black fighters should never sign with Bob Arum. Why is he not a bigger star for all of his skill? Crawford is another one with so much talent and he hasn’t fought anyone. Arum basically said he’s worthless.
Rigo is not an exciting fighter as simple as that.
You said it “Rigo is not a fighter” he is a BOXER!!! If you don’t appreciate Rigo you aren’t a boxing fan. Rigondeaux is a hell of an exciting boxer. Be thankful that you are watching a man like no other. It will be a long time before we see another boxer with his skills
rigo is much smarter fighter than casimero i have a feeling his going to win