Fernando Montiel Wants Redemption, Eyes Abner Mares

By Salvador Rodriguez

Fernando Montiel is looking for redemption in 2012, which is why he selected a tough, durable opponent for his first fight of the year - which is going to take place on March 3rd or March 17th against Indonesian fighter Angky Angkota, who recently went the distance in a tough fight with WBO bantamweight king Jorge Arce.

"I am encouraged, eager, and last year was tough for me, but I want to prove that I'm still a force. I've left the bad stuff behind me and the best satisfaction that I can give myself is to rise back up," Montiel (46-4-2, 36 KOs).

The former three division world champion has been training for the last few weeks. Last year he was knocked out in two rounds by Nonito Donaire and then three fights later he dropped a twelve round decision to Victor Terrazas.

"We want to enter this fight in the best shape possible. I sparred with a lot of guys who've been to my gym. I feel renewed. I've been working hard and now that I have a fight, we are going to press the accelerator," Montiel said.

"There has been talk of fighting Abner Mares, [fights] with other champions in the division, and I think there's a chance to return [and secure these opportunities].

Salvador Rodriguez covers boxing in Mexico for The Record.