Nonito Donaire of the Philippines today said he is “totally crushed’ by the loss of Alexis Arguello at a Top Rank press conference at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.
“I have a complete collection of Alexis’ boxing videos, every one of his big fights,” said Donaire. “That’s how I learned to throw a hook, by watching the way Alexis did it on video, while at the same time watching how he carried himself in and out of the ring. He really was a true gentleman and that is how I try to behave at all times.”
Donaire was at Top Rank’s ‘Pinoy Power 2′ press conference announcing his upcoming bout against Rafael Concepcion of Panama. Donaire and Concepcion will box for the WBA Interim Super Flyweight (115 pound) Championship.
Concepcion said “..this is my first time in Las Vegas. No one really knows my name. On August 15, they will when I take that title belt to Panama.”
Trainer Robert Garcia, who works with world featherweight champion Steven Luevano, said “…it’ll be interesting to see how we do against a Freddie Roach-trained fighter in Bernabe Concepcion.
“For sure, Concepcion will be in top shape,” said Luevano.
“Roach is the best trainer in the world today,” said Garcia. “This is opportunity for me to see how I compare with Roach, how well I am doing as a trainer.”
Luevano of La Puente, Ca. will take on Concepcion of the Philippines on ‘Pinoy Power 2′ on August 15 at the Hard Rock.
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Pinoy Power 2 tickets for August 15 are $200, $100, $50 and go on sale on July 4, noontime. Tickets can be purchased at www.hardrockhotel.com and at www.ticketmaster.com
Photos: Chris Farina – Top Rank