By Luis Sandoval
Jorge Linares had a tough set back when he lost back to back fights against Antonio DeMarco in 2011 and Sergio Thompson last year. The Venezuelan has been quietly on the comeback trail as he’s scored two victories since and is hoping to get back in the mix in before the end of this year.
BoxingScene caught up Linares who informed he could possibly be fighting July 19th in Las Vegas although nothing has been finalized.
“They are talking about fighting July 19th in Las Vegas but they are also talking about a world title shot but nothing is confirmed. We are waiting on Golden Boy to confirm the date and where the fight will be and with who. So in the meantime we are working strong every day with no missteps in order to wait to get a big opportunity” informed Linares.
A few years ago Linares was thought of as one of the most promising fighters and while he was able to attain two world titles early on, he’s been plagued with multiple losses and hasn’t been able secure another championship. Linares plans to show everyone he’s still one of the best despite the setbacks.
“I’m 27 years old and I now have a new trainer as of January with Ismael Salas. It’s going wonderful and I know a lot of people still have their doubts about me because of what’s happened in my professional career when I was a world champion. I just stay quiet, keep working and continue to give the best of me in the gym and in the fights. So it’s just a question that we get those opportunities. But I know we still have a lot of ground to make up and today I feel so much better than before” Linares would tell BoxingScene.
Linares hopes Golden Boy and Teiken Promotions come to an agreement soon and finalize his next bout. July 19th and even September 14th are dates that are being looked at. Linares plans to stay at Lightweight and campaign for his third world title but until something is concrete, Linares is training hard and ready for whoever his next opponent may be.
“I want two fights. Like I commented before, they are talking about a tune up fight of 10 rounds against whomever and then we’ll go for the world title. But I think if the opportunity for a world title comes in this next fight then that would be perfect”.
You can follow Luis Sandoval on Twitter @Truewest007. You can also tune in to BoxingScene Radio, Boxingscene’s official audio show every Tuesday from 6-8PM PST with hosts Ernest Gabion, Luis Sandoval, and Ryan Burton.
