“I WANT TO RETIRE A CHAMPION” - GERRY PENALOSA
By Rene Bonsubre, Jr.
PhilBoxing.com
Fri, 23 Oct 2009
Mandaluyong City – Gerry Penalosa looked fit and trim when he arrived at his gym at the Marketplace Shopping Mall Wednesday afternoon. He has not fought for six months but he looked like he could go twelve rounds at a moment's notice.
Penalosa said that he has not yet seen the official contract for his December fight against WBO bantamweight champ Fernando Montiel of Mexico. He said that he has even heard rumors that Montiel plans to move up in weight. But, Penalosa said that he is ready to fight Montiel or anybody, as long a world title belt is on the line.
“I will only fight for a world title. I want to retire as champion.” Penalosa said.
Regarding the possibility that he could face countryman Z “The Dream” Gorres in the near future, Penalosa said that he considers Gorres a friend and a good person. “But, if it is ordered by the WBO, then I have no choice.”
If given a choice, Gerry would rather fight another Mexican, Abner Mares, who is undefeated in 19 fights with 12 KO's. The 37 year old Penalosa (54 W -7 L -2 D, 36 KO's) has been a pro for twenty years now. He attributes his longevity and boxing knowledge from his willingness to learn. “I trained under many American trainers. I assimilated all the good things they taught me. At certain points in my career, I hired nutritionists and conditioning coaches so I could learn from them as well.”
Penalosa did not lose his WBO bantamweight title in the ring. He lost to Juan Manuel Lopez when he moved up one division higher in his attempt to win a third world title. The fire still burns after two decades. Penalosa wants to leave the fight game on top. For us who followed his career through the years, we know he deserves nothing less.
Top photo: Gerry Penalosa (L) with Team Pacquiao member Jojo Sta. Teresa pose for photo at the Penalosa Gym in Mandaluyong Wednesday afternoon. Photo by Dong Secuya.
Click here to view a list of other articles written by Rene Bonsubre, Jr..
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