By: Sean Cross
WBC Junior Middleweight trainee Sebastian Fundora returns to action tomorrow night in Carson, California with a scheduled 12 round bout against 34-1 Carlos Ocampo. 19-0-1 Fundora is known for his ring prowess with his 6’6 height. This probably made the 24-year-old think. “The working theory on Fundora,” writes Brian Campbell CBS Sports, Because of his spidery frame, he’s nothing more than a drag – because of his spidery frame – and he’s bent over when he first gets up and fights his fists. The problem with that concept is that it doesn’t happen.”
Sure enough, Fundora was able to get off the mat to finally stop the then undefeated and highly talented Erickson Lubin in April. Now that he’s in line for a world title shot, of course, he’s the best Ocampo. That’s not a guaranteed thing. After all, Ocampo’s only loss came against welterweight kingpin Errol Spence’s highly regarded gloved fists — and that was four years ago. Since then, the man has gone 12-0. Still, Fundora is feeling confident on the eve of Saturday’s Showtime-split fight.
“I feel like I’ve proven to the people that I’m a great fighter,” he said at a press conference Thursday. “I showed that I have what it takes to be world champion.” Will he have what it takes to defeat the determined Ocampo? Fundora is clearly a favorite to walk, but disappointment abounds in boxing. “You have to focus in the boxing ring,” Fundora said ESNews. “Just Show Your A-Game” With future undisputed junior middleweight champion Jermell Charlo (or Tim Tsiu, who Charlo is expected to fight next) on the line, it’s hard to imagine Fundora not bringing his A-game with him at Glory Health Sports Park. on Saturday.
When asked at Thursday’s press conference what he wanted to say to the fans coming live to watch Saturday’s game, the mild-mannered Fundora spoke confidently. “I can guarantee you your money’s worth,” he said. “This is my first real main event. I’ll make sure you guys get what you want. That, and my sister will be fighting, so it’s going to be a good night.” Of course, Fundora’s sister, 8-0 Gabriela Fundora, will also be in action Saturday.For Fundora’s fight game, it’s clearly a family affair.
