By Ryan Burton
BoxingScene.com speaks to David Diaz (35-2) about his win over Jesus Chavez on September 26th. See how he rates his performance in this exclusive interview. Diaz goes on to say he wants to fight Michael Katsidis for his WBO lightweight title next.
BoxingScene.com: First off congratulations on the victory over Jesus Chavez. What are your thoughts on the fight?
David Diaz: It was a good tough fight that we needed to have in order for us to try to get back in and get in title contention. I think we did ok. We didn't do good or great and it just showed the ring rust I had due to the fifteen months I had off. You know its a learning experience and we will move on from there and get better and get back in the gym.
BoxingScene.com: What grade would you give yourself?
David Diaz: Definitely a C. Probably a low C or High D (laughing). We did not do the things that I was supposed to do. He got through my punches a lot and it was just the ring rust I guess.
BoxingScene.com: Were you surprised at how close the scores were (97-93, 96-94, 95-95) or did you think it was a close fight?
David Diaz: Actually I thought the scores were pretty accurate considering the way I was fighting. I think the scores were correct the way the judges scored it.
BoxingScene.com: Do you have a target date for your next fight?
David Diaz: No not really. We are actually going to get back in the gym tomorrow and go from there and see what pops up. I know after the fight they said something about (Michael) Katsidis looking for somebody to fight and I would definitely be interested in that and up to the task.
BoxingScene.com: Is that the fight you want the most being that he is the WBO champ?
David Diaz: I mean him being the belt holder definitely makes it an attractive fight for me and I would like it if we can get it done.
BoxingScene.com: That was your first fight in Illinois in a couple years. Would you like to try to make that fight in front of your hometown fans?
David Diaz: Oh I would love it if it is possible to get it here in Chicago. I would definitely love it and it would be a great fight.
BoxingScene.com: Do you have a message for the fans?
David Diaz: Thank you for hanging in there with me and we will keep moving forward. I appreciate the support and everything the fans have done for me. We got up and we are going to be fighting for a title soon.