By Osman Rodriguez

After spending the last six weeks in Oxnard Calif., with new trainer, Robert Garcia, undefeated light welterweight prospect Chris Algieri (14-0, 7 KOs) feels his career is headed in the right direction with the great sparring and coaching he’s been getting.  He’s scheduled to fight this weekend in Huntington NY, under his promotional banner, STAR BOXING, against tough opponent, Raul Tovar (10-5-1, 4 KOs).

BoxingScene.com:  How has training with Robert Garcia helped you in preparation for your up and coming fight against Raul Tovar?

Chris Algieri:  It’s been great training with Robert Garcia.  The sparring is unbelievable and I get pushed to my ultimate limits every day.  I got great work with Marcos Maidana, Andy Ruiz, Havier Garcia and Hector Munoz.  It’s been a tremendous experience so far.

BoxingScene.com: Can you talk about sparring Marcos Maidana?

Chris Algieri:  He’s a very hard puncher and he never stops coming forward.  You have to be in great shape to go hard rounds with him because he puts a tremendous amount of pressure on you.  There’s no other experience that can prepare you for to elite level of competition other than the real thing.

BoxingScene.com:  What do you know about your opponent Raul Tovar?

Chris Algieri:  I know he’s never been stopped before.  He’s a rugged guy that can bring it.  My goal will be to box him and if I get him hurt, try to get him out of there.  I never go into a fight looking for the KO, but if it comes, then I’ll embrace it.  I like to break down my opponents and take them into deep water, because I feel I’m the man with the better conditioning.

BoxingScene.com:  Will Robert Garcia be working your corner this fight?

Chris Algieri:  No, he has another commitment with Marcos Maidana so he’ll be sending up his assistant, Marcos Contreras, who’ll be working with my other coaches, Tim Lane and Keith Trimble.

BoxingScene.com:  Any last words for the fans?

Chris Algieri:  I just want to thank my managers, Humberto Romero and Damian Ramirez who have been working great with my promoter Joe DeGuardia.  It’s been a busy year and I love that I’ve been able to build on my fan base at home in New York.  I want to thank all my fans who’ve been coming to all my fights at the Paramount Theatre in Huntington, New York.  I’m looking to put on a great performance this weekend.

Tags: Chris Algieri