Undefeated Dominican southpaw Juan Carlos Payano (13-0, 7 KOs), ranked No. 5 in the World Boxing Association (WBA) bantamweight rankings, is continuing his training in Miami for a June 14th showdown against unbeaten Philippine invader Jundy “Pretty Boy” Maraon (15-0-1, 12 KOs), in a 12-round WBA title eliminator headlining ESPN Friday Night Fights, airing live from South Mountain Arena in South Orange, New Jersey.
“We are working with southpaws to get familiar with Maraon’s style,” Payano said. “We know that he is a strong puncher who has an acceptable record. He represents a great challenge. I’ll step into the ring, as always, in excellent condition because of our strong training camp. I’m focused on taking away his power.”
Payano held an intense sparring session this past Tuesday, going four, five-minute rounds each against Jessy Cruz and Idiel Torriente, totaling eight rounds and 40 minutes of intense work at German Caicedo’s Gym.
“This fight is a big challenge for Payano,” Acquinity Sports promoter Henry Rivalta commented. “He will be facing Jundy Maraon at 118 pounds, which is a great risk due to the power Maraon has shown in his fights. However, we know about the Payano’s courage and determination, and that’s why we call him ‘Baby Pacquiao.’ We’re confident of getting a great victory for Payano.”
Payano is the reigning NABA and WBA Fedelatin bantamweight, while Maraon is a former World Boxing Organization (WBO) Asia Pacific bantamweight champion.
“This fight is another step towards me attaining our goals,” Payano concluded. “I’ve had five fights since arriving in the United States and have maintained my unbeaten record. We will assert our place in the WBA rankings, proving that I have the ability to face the best in this weight class.”
