GOLD COAST, Australia – Herlan Gomez is preparing to use Jason Moloney’s reputation to transform his career.
The Filipino has travelled to confront the 34-year-old Moloney on the occasion of the Australian’s first fight back in his home country since 2022, and at the Gold Coast Exhibition Centre on the undercard of Jai Opetaia-Huseyin Cinkara.
Moloney, the former WBO bantamweight champion, is recognised as among Australia’s most successful fighters of the modern era, and having signed a three-fight contract with Tasman Fighters is planning on rebuilding and reigning as champion once again.
The 26-year-old Gomez, however, recognises that victory over him in his home country on a promotion that is close to a celebration of Australian boxing can lead to the nature of opportunities that have previously proved beyond him, and is determined to capitalise on the chance with which he has been presented, aware that if he loses another may never come his way.
“This is a very important opportunity for me, to fight a former world champion,” he told BoxingScene. “This is my chance to make my name here in Australia.
“I stayed in Thailand for training. In Bangkok; in boxing gyms and kickboxing gyms.
“I’m ready 100 per cent for this fight. I will show you.
“I’m the underdog for this fight. If I win, it will be a big upset for me.”
Gomez was then asked if he considered Moloney the strongest of his 17 professional opponents, and he responded: “Yes. His speed and power is good, and he’s also smart. I 100 per cent respect him.
“I will do my best, Saturday night.”
