Guevara-Claveras: Javier Molina, Aaron Alemada Added

By Jake Donovan

Details of the supporting cast continue to trickle out for Pedro Guevara’s homecoming bout, as he faces unbeaten Richard Claveras on April 11 at Centro de Conveciones in Mazlatán, Mexico. The bout marks the first defense of the junior flyweight belt Guevara won on the road with a 9th round stoppage of Akira Yaegashi last New Year’s Eve in Japan.

In the evening’s co-feature, Jessica “Kika” Chavez takes on Philippines Norj Guro (7-4-1, 4KOs), which gives the show a recurring theme of Mexico vs. Philippines.

Guro fights outside of Asia for the first time in her young career, entering the bout having managed just two wins in her last seven starts. Chavez (21-4-3, 3KOs) is coming off of a 10-round points loss to Ibeth Zamora last November.

The undercard features rising prospects Javier Molina and Aarón Alemada in separate bouts, against opponents to be determined.

Molina (16-1, 7KOs)—based out of California but whom represented Mexico in the 2008 Beijing Olympics—has won seven straight following the lone loss of his career, dropping a decision to Artemio Reyes in Oct. ’11. While the resurgent welterweight has rebounded nicely, injuries have stalled his progress in the transition from prospect to contender. His twin brother, unbeaten featherweight prospect Oscar Molina and older brother Carlos Molina (the junior welterweight) are also pro boxers.

Alemada (8-0, 7KOs) has been a big hit since turning pro a year ago – in fact to the day come Easter Sunday. The 21-year old from Nogales was forced to go the distance for the first time in his young career in his most recent fight, scoring a six-round decision over Juan Tovar in February.

Guevara (24-1-1, 16KOs) has won six straight heading into next weekend’s showdown, but his lone two non-winning performances both took place at the hosting venue. The 25-year old boxer-puncher was held to a draw versus Mario Rodriguez in their May ’11 clash before conquering the former strawweight titlist with a 12-round points win in July ’13.

The lone loss of his career came at home, dropping a 12-round decision to John Riel Casimero in Aug. ’12, his first bid at a major title.

The April 11 show will air live on Televisa in Mexico.

Jake Donovan is the Managing Editor of BoxingScene.com. Twitter: @JakeNDaBox