By Ronnie Nathanielsz
The IBF has given Intercontinental super flyweight champion Z “The Dream” Gorres a May 11 deadline to defend his title which he won in a bout with former world light flyweight champion Eric Ortiz in the Philippines vs Mexico “World Cup” in Sacramento last August 11. And the champion’s handlers have accepted the challenge.
IBF Championship Committee chairman Lindsey Tucker however said the deadline for the mandatory title defense could be extended depending on how Gorres has recovered from the nasty gash on his forehead which he suffered from a head-butt by Vic Darchinyan in their foul-riddled, controversial draw last February 2 in Cebu City.
Gorres himself told Viva Sports/Manila Standard Today he would return to the ALA Gym to resume training in a day or two and was ready to face anyone, including Darchinyan.
Michael Aldeguer who has assumed the mantle of his respected father and boxing patron Tony Aldeguer said Gorres is ready to abide by the IBF deadline and the title defense has been set for May 3 at the Mandaue City Cultural & Sports Complex, a venue where Gorres is very popular with fans. While there is no word on the opponent as yet, it could be a fighter from South Africa.
Trainer Edito “Ala” Villamor says Gorres would begin working on the heavy bag and punch mitts next week.
Gorres earlier admitted he had a tendency to ease off or fade in the crucial last three rounds of a fight and blamed himself and nobody else for this. Gorres said he would discuss this problem with Villamor and may even consult a psychologist about his problem.
