Major and Latest Boxing news in Ghana
Coach Asare upbeat about Agbeko’s chances
The local trainer of Joseph Agbeko, Ofori Asare, is upbeat about his boxer’s chances against American Guillermo Rigondeaux this weekend.
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While admitting that the bout will be a mouthful for the “King-Kong” in the Atlantic City, New Jersey Arena, he is optimistic if Agbeko takes his chances he might come out victorious.
“It’s a 50-50 chance for both boxers, but Agbeko can win if he takes his chances and stands firm in the face of a tough opponent like Rigondeaux”, he told the Daily Graphic last Wednesday in an interview.
Coach Asare, also head coach of the national amateur team, the Black Bombers, guided Agbeko to victory in his last bout in Ghana, but insists this is his toughest opponent yet.
He, however, was hopeful that the Ghanaian boxer would emerge victorious on the night with his powerful punches and stamina, which Agbeko recently regained under his tutelage.
Agbeko has power but has not stopped any opponent since 2007.
Agbeko is well remembered for his two fights with Abner Mares, the first of which was overshadowed by a ridiculous performance by referee Russell Mora. Mares frequently focused his attacks below Agbeko's beltline, and not only did he have a point taken, but he was also credited with a knockdown in the 11th round via a blatant low punch.
Agbeko will be making his first attempt at a world title at 122 pounds. He's a massive underdog, but is tough, durable and can crack so the fight has the potential for excitement.
Agbeko also knows this could be his last shot as age is creeping in and so has to make the best out of this chance.
Rigondeaux is a defensive wizard in the ring and a lot of that has to do with his extensive amateur background. Rigo won two Olympic gold medals for his native Cuba in 2000 and 2004 before defecting, and that explains why his defensive acumen is so strong.
Agbeko, on the other hand, has been in the ring with a very high level of talent throughout his career. Between 2009 and 2011, he had a dizzying stretch in which he faced Vic Darchinyan, Yohnny Perez twice and then Abner Mares twice. So he knows what it is like to be in there with a world-class fighter.
