“Prince” Albert Pagara. Mark Giongco/INQUIRER.net FILE PHOTO
GIVEN another opportunity to shine in the international arena, “Prince” Albert Pagara intends to make the most out of it.
That’s why Pagara is giving it all in his preparations for former world title contender Rocky Juarez at Wild Card Gym in Hollywood.
The unbeaten Pagara, 26-0, 19 knockouts, and Juarez (17-5, 13 KOs) will clash in the main event of Pinoy Pride 37 set on July 9 at San Mateo Events Center in San Francisco.
Accompanied by trainer Edito Villamor, the 22-year-old pride of Cagayan de Oro has been pounding the heavy bags and hitting the speed balls with gusto.
Michael Aldeguer, president and CEO of ALA International Promotions, personally saw Pagara’s fine form in a short visit to the United States recently.
“He looks fine,” said Aldeguer of Pagara, touted to be the next big thing of Philippine boxing. “Looking good. He’s been training real well.”
According to Aldeguer, Pagara and his older brother Jayson, who will ll see action in the chief support against a yet to be named opponent, will proceed to San Francisco on June 19.
If Pagara beats Juarez, who gave Nonito Donaire Jr. a hard time in their fight for the vacant World Boxing Organization super bantamweight crown last December in Puerto Rico, he is likely to be given a title shot in his next outing.