by Mark Vester
According to new publication Xinhua, WBA featherweight champ Chris John of Indonesia is having trouble making weight for his mandatory defense against Renan Acosta of Panama on September 9 in Jakarta. His promoter thinks that John is losing too much weight in too short of a time span, and it could cost him once he steps inside the ring.
"Having to reduce his weight drastically (in a short period) could spell serious problems for Chris John, as it could lead to dehydration and a loss of endurance during the fight,"said Syamsul Anwar Harahap, promoter of John.
His promoter notes that John is still 3 pounds above his desired weight, and is having trouble knocking off the pounds.
"Chris still has time (to lose the weight) until Sep. 2. After that, any efforts will only cause trouble," Syamsul said.
John is making $125K for the bout, while Acosta will make $30K.
