AFTER his successful outing in England, International Boxing Federation flyweight champion John Riel Casimero is now contemplating on his next move, the Olympics and a possible fight with Donnie Nietes.
The 26-year-old Ormoc City native made mincemeat of British challenger Charlie Edwards, unleashing a sweeping left hook that finished off the Briton in the 10th round at the O2 Arena in London.
Now, Casimero’s management team is eyeing an immediate defense of the title early next year.
“We are working on the possibilities of an optional defense, but at this time, hindi pa natin ma-finalize, and we will announce (the fight) once everything is completed,” said promoter Sammy Gello-ani at the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum in Shakey’s Malate.
In the meantime, with the rise of Casimero in the flyweight class, the possibility of him facing Donnie “Ahas” Nietes in the same weight class is non-existent.
“It will not happen. Why let two good Filipino fighters fight for one title? For us promoters, I don’t think it will happen, it’s not possible talaga,” he said.
Gello-ani explained that promoters veer away from touting two Filipinos for obvious reasons, because it’s not in the culture of Pinoys.
“Parehas naman kaming Pinoy, mas maganda sana na kalabanin na lang namin ‘yung mga taga ibang bansa kaysa Pinoy ‘yung magkalaban,” said Casimero.
Asked if there was a chance that he would represent the country in the Olympics if given the chance, Casimero feels that he is better off fighting in the pro ranks.
“Para sa akin, ‘yung style ko kasi pang-knockout, suntukan talaga. Mahihirapan tayo sa Olympics kase takbuhan lang,” Casimero said in jest.
“For a professional to fight in the Olympics, that’s an disadvantage. The method of judging and training are entirely different,” added Gello-ani, backing Casimero.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Dragon Boat team paddled their way to two gold medals, along with two silvers and a bronze during the International Canoe Federation World Dragon Boat Championships, recently in Moscow, Russia.