Llover ready for brawl with unbeaten American

MANILA, Philippines – Either Kenneth Llover or Michael Angeletti will no longer be unbeaten after their world crown eliminator on June 6 at the Aichi Sky Expo in Tokoname, Japan.

Llover, one of the Philippines’ brightest ring hope, however, believes he will prevail in the 12-round encounter and arrange a title clash with International Boxing Federation bantamweight champion Jose Salas Reyes before the year ends.

Even two-division world champion Gerry Penalosa is convinced that Llover would pass his toughest test yet and move closer to the 118-pound crown.

“Once the bell rings, Llover will transform into a fierce street dog ready to pounce on his opponent,” said Peñalosa, during the media workout held Thursday, May 7, at his sports center in Dona Soledad Avenue, Parañaque.

“He has all the tools,” explained Penalosa. “He is brave, dedicated, and has a mindset determined to be a champion. He relishes challenges.”

Only 23 years old, Llover has stopped his last five opponents and holds a 17-0 card with 12 knockouts. Angeletti, 29, is no pushover with a 14-0 slate and eight knockouts.

Aware of the danger the Spring, Texas-based Angeletti poses, Peñalosa has assembled a solid team to guide Llover in his training in Tagaytay City.

In addition to head coach Dindo Campo, Peñalosa has recruited his older brother Carl, lead trainer of IBF minimumweight champion Pedro Taduran, strength and conditioning coach Alex Ariza, and his son, Julio, as manager, to help prepare Llover for the fight that would determine whether the pride of General Trias, Cavite, deserves the accolade as a future Manny Pacquiao.

According to Llover, he has kept his weight in check and is ready to move up to 10 rounds of sparring within the week.

Although he regards Angeletti as a skillful and technical fighter, Llover said he’s going to mix it up and do the chasing if the American retreats.

No wonder Campo sees a beautiful fight coming up with somebody getting floored. And he’s optimistic Llover will be left standing. – Rappler.com