By Miguel Rivera
Mexican-American trainer Robert Garcia is confident that the talent and discipline of world champion Jose Ramirez will allow him to shine in the sport of boxing.
And after a sparring session that he witnessed Ramirez have with Mikey Garcia, it was clear to the veteran coach that his new boxer could compete with anyone.
Ramirez will make the first defense of his World Boxing Council (WBC) junior welterweight world title on Saturday night, against challenger Danny O'Connor at the Save Mart Arena in Fresno, California. Ramirez captured the title earlier this year with a twelve round decision win over Amir Imam.
The upcoming fight will be the first contest in the new working partnership between Ramirez and Garcia.
In his title winning effort, Ramirez was being cornered by Hall of Fame trainer Freddie Roach.
Ramirez felt that a change was necessary, because Roach is handling numerous fighters and the United States Olympian did not feel like a top priority.
Garcia is very impressed with him and sees a bright future for the undefeated fighter.
"He's a guy who can go far, he's disciplined, he has a good manager and has one of the best promoters in Top Rank," Garcia told ESPN Deportes.
"I know there are great plans [for Ramirez], [Top Rank] knows they can make a superstar, he has an aggressive style, he's strong, he doesn't get tire... these are qualities that will allow him to beat even the toughest champions.
"The truth is that Jose is well prepared. He's had two and a half months of camp for the fight and he will arrive in very good condition and good job of sparring, and he did two rounds with Mikey García and he looked good, strong and with heart."
Jose (22-0, 16 KOs) vs. O'Connor (30-3, 11 KOs) will headline a Top Rank promoted card, which is being carried by ESPN.
