Felix Diaz To Train With Abel Sanchez, Returns 2/20

By Jake Donovan

Looking for big things to happen in his career in 2015 (and beyond), Felix Diaz continues to make significant changes in his career. Two weeks after signing with high-powered adviser Al Haymon, the unbeaten super lightweight has added A-level trainer Abel Sanchez to his team.

The move comes after a stint spent with another elite trainer in Robert Garcia, with the change due to convenience and learning the sport from another perspective.

“We’re grateful for all that Felix learned training with Robert Garcia and all of the talent in his gym in Oxnard,” states manager Jose Nuñez, who signed Diaz shortly after his Gold medal winning performance in the 2008 Beijing Olympics. “Felix is serious about making a run this year, and we are excited about working with Abel Sanchez.”

Sanchez is best known these days for his work with unbeaten middleweight titlist Gennady Golovkin. The 59-year old trainer from California, who also owns a construction company, previously guided the Hall of Fame career of former World super welterweight king Terry Norris, as well as former lightweight titlist Miguel Angel ‘MAGO’ Gonzalez during the 1990s. 

Diaz (16-0, 8KOs) is due to return to the ring on February 20, with the location and opponent to be determined in the near future. The 31-year old from Dominican Republic is coming off of a 10-round decision over Adrian Granados last November. 

Plans for 2015 call for a couple of momentum-building fights before gunning for a title fight with 140 lb. beltholder Lamont Peterson later in the year.