By Rick Reeno
BoxingScene.com has been advised that WBC interim-welterweight champion Robert Guerrero (30-1-1, 18KOs) is dedicating his upcoming title defense to Hall of Fame trainer Emanuel Steward, who passed away on Thursday at the age of 68.
Guerrero is scheduled to face the most dangerous opponent of his entire career, former two-time welterweight champion Andre Berto (28-1, 22KOs).
The HBO televised fight is taking place on November 24th at the Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario, California.
Steward, regarded as one of the greatest boxing minds in the history of the sport, was the current trainer of Wladimir Klitschko, Andy Lee, Adonis Stevenson and several others. Although Steward never trained Guerrero, the Gilroy fighter was inspired by Steward's ability to groom so many champions. Steward's Kronk Gym, located in Detroit, is one of the most well known boxing gyms in the world.
Guerrero said: "I'm deeply saddened by the news of Emanuel Steward. He was not only a pioneer of the sport of boxing but a man of integrity. My deepest condolences go out to his family and Manny will never be forgotten. November 24th on HBO, I dedicate my fight against Berto to one of my idols...Manny Steward. God Bless you Manny and I won't let you down. This one's for you!"
