2012 U.S. Olympian and undefeated top prospect Joseph “Jojo” Diaz Jr. (17-0, 10 KOs) and Frankie “Pitbull” Gomez (18-0, 13 KOs), 2009 U.S. Amateur Champion, hosted a media workout today ahead of their respective bouts this Friday, Oct. 23 from Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, Calif.
Diaz Jr. is scheduled to take on Mexican brawler Ruben “Canelito” Tamayo (23-6-4, 15 KOs) in a 10-round featherweight bout main event. In the co-main event of the evening, Gomez is set to face Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico’s Jorge “Pantera” Silva (19-9-2, 15KOs) in a 10-round welterweight classic Mexican brawl.
JOSEPH “JOJO” DIAZ JR
“Training camp has been going very well. I feel very strong and ready for this fight. I had a two month training camp. The first month I focused on my strength and conditioning, getting my legs and arms stronger. After that, I trained with my father and focused on fundamentals.
“I studied my opponent Ruben Tamayo and I know he is tall with range and likes to keep his distance so we are focused on landing effective body shots. I want to make a statement with this fight and beat Ruben Tamayo down and take him out. If Ruben wants to try to outbox or bang on me, I will be able to respond in the ring.
“This Friday at Fantasy Springs the fans can expect a ferocious Joseph Diaz Jr. in the ring. I’m very determined and I want to hurt Ruben Tamayo. I’m going to be smart and aggressive. It’s going to be a great night of boxing.”
FRANKIE “PITBULL” GOMEZ
“It’s been a great experience working with Freddie Roach. I’ve had a lot of great sparring sessions. I’ve learned how to step into the punches, throw better body shots, move the head after you throw punches.
“I feel blessed for Freddie to think and say that I am one of the most talented guys he is training right now. It makes me want to work harder.
“I feel very prepared for this fight. I have been sparring with great fighters, Ruslan Provodnikov, Viktor Postol and Miguel Cotto. I feel strong. All the fans will enjoy my fight, not only will it be entertaining but I will get to showcase my skills set.
“I don’t like boxing, I love it. I plan to stay in the gym 24/7. It’s going to be different now.”
