Claveras Motivated By Taconing, Ready For Road Win
Apr 7, 2015 • 7:37 AM ET
By Jake Donovan
An unbeaten contender from Philippines boldly marches into hostile territory in Mexico, delivers a top-notch performance and returns home with the biggest win of his career.
It was a scenario Richard Claveras envisioned from the moment he accepted terms to challenger 108 lb. titlist Pedro Guevara in his hometown of Mazlatan, Mexico. The dream was put to life, a week before his own trek abroad as he sat back and watched Jonathan Taconing dismantle Ramon Garcia last weekend.
This weekend will be Claveras’ turn to score big on the road, heading into Guevara’s hometown in search of his first major title. A big win was already the expectation, but he’s feeling extremely confident of his first trip outside of his native Philippines. The 25-year old contender even packed extra for the occasion – his luggage and an additional suitcase he is keeping reserved for a souvenir.
“I have an empty suitcase to save for the belt,” Claveras (12-0-2, 12KOs) quipped as began his quest from Philippines to Mexico on Monday.
Of course, that’s if he relinquishes the belt from his grip should he emerge victorious on Saturday. “The excitement of being world champion is such that I might only remove the belt to bathe.”
Claveras has kept active since turning pro just three years ago. His past three wins have come in the span of less than four months, including a 1st round knockout this past January.
Guevara (24-1-1, 16KOs) makes the first defense of the title he won with a 7th round stoppage of Akira Yaegashi on the road in Japan last New Year’s Eve. Less than four months later, the newly crowned titlist gets a home game.
Just don’t expect his opponent to wild out over it.
"I have what it takes to win in Mexico - speed, power and a lot of heart,” Claveras insists. “Guevara will have hometown advantage and the support of his fans, but none of that will matter when we are alone together in the ring.
“Go in with a winning mentality and I won’t have to worry about defeat.”
Saturday’s bout headlines live on Televisa, as part of the network’s Sabados de Box series.
Jake Donovan is the Managing Editor of BoxingScene.com. Twitter: @JakeNDaBox
Jake Donovan is an award-winning journalist who served as senior writer for BoxingScene from 2007-2024, and news editor for the final nine years of his first tour. He was also the lead writer for The Ring before his decision to return home.
