By Rey Danseco
Australian trainer Jeff Fenech thinks his IBF flyweight champion Vic Darchinyan might not be in tip-top shape for the scheduled title defense against Filipino Diosdado Gabi which takes place early next month in California.
"We didn't have much time in training, so everything has been a bit rushed, it hasn't been the greatest preparation," said Fenech to Australian newspaper before leaving the Sydney Airport for Los Angeles Friday.
Darchinyan and the Davao City-native Gabi fight at the Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez on March 3 (March 4 Philippine time).
Darchinyan admitted that he would be in great shape if he worked out for at least six weeks.
"I've had just four weeks preparation. Of course, if it was six weeks. I'd be better, but I still feel very good," Darchinyan said at the airport.
Fenech knows what the 26-year old Filipino southpaw is capable in the ring. Gabi has not tasted defeat in almost four years. Gabi’s record stands at 26 wins with 18 knockouts against two losses and a draw.
"Gabi is classy, he's a little fast guy, a good mover," Fenech said. "He likes to stand there as well, but he won't stand there with Vic, nobody stands with Vic, once they feel his power."
Darchinyan, also the IBO champion, sports a menacing 24-0 with 19 KOs. It will be the third time he’ll put the belts on the line since taking it from former long-time champion Irene Pacheco with 11th round TKO in December 2004 at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel in Hollywood, Florida.
