MONTHLY
PUNCH PREVIEW: JUNE
In terms of the upcoming fight itself, it will be interesting to see how Rigondeaux approaches this title defence considering the pressure he is under to deliver. If he does opt for a more offensive “crowd pleasing” approach he has already proven during his five year stint in the professional ranks that he does possess sufficient enough power to end a bout early should he seek the knock out to make a statement. He may very well fancy his chances of overwhelming his 37 year old opponent with his superior speed and movement and with the impeccable timing in his punches he shouldn’t have too much difficulty landing his shots if decides to take a few more extra risks than usual.
Kokoetgym a southpaw like Rigondeaux, has fought for the WBO Super Bantamweight twice previously both against Daniel Ponce De Leon, firstly losing a unanimous decision in October 2005 and then suffering a first round knockout decision in Las Vegas the following July. Since being stopped by De Leon in their 2006 encounter Kokietgym has competed solely in his home country against limited opponents with his two most recent outings, bizarrely for a fighter who has contested over sixty professional consisting of two six round unanimous points’ victories over a fighter making his pro debut and another with a record of
0-1.
Although, Kokoetgym may boast a wealth of experience fighting professionally since 2001 with Rigondeaux making only his fourteenth professional appearance the experience gained by the Cuban in over 400 amateur fights (where he lost only 12) including triumphs at 2 Olympic Games plus with a 12 round professional victory over Nonito Doniare on his ledger, will surely mean he has far too much for Kokoetgym in the way of top quality ring knowledge and coupling this with his superior boxing ability it will be extremely unlikely that the Thai fighter can cause an upset.
Which ever version of Rigondeaux turns up on fight night, whether it’s the extremely successful tried and tested defensive counter puncher or a slightly more aggressive version looking to prove a point or two, there is one thing all boxing fans should ensure regardless of what the final viewing figures for the fight end up being. That is to enjoy and appreciate this very special talent whilst he is around and hopefully before his career is over, either with Bob Arum or under another promotions outfit we will see Rigondeaux face the big names his abilities undoubtedly deserve him to test himself against.
RIGONDEUX
33
CUBA
5ft 4 1/2
66
SOUTHPAW
13
0
0
8
83
TALE OF THE TAPE
AGE
FROM
HEIGHT
REACH
STANCE
WINS
LOSSES
DRAWS
KO'S
ROUNDS BOXED
KOKOETGYM
37
THAILAND
Unknown
Unknown
SOUTHPAW
63
2
1
28
411