Juan Diaz Talks Katsidis Rematch, Facing Edwin Valero
Posted by: Ryan Burton on 02-09-2010.
www.boxingscene.com Former lightweight champion Juan "Baby Bull" Diaz responds to the challenge issued by Michael Katsidis in this exclusive BoxingScene.com interview. The Baby Bull also talks about Edwin Valero's victory over Antonio DeMarco and the possibility of unifying titles with him down the road.
BoxingScene.com: What's the latest with Juan Diaz?
Juan Diaz: I am getting back into the rhythm here in 2010. Its been a slow start to this year but I think that something great is going to happen in 2010. I have been taking this time off to refocus and get my mind right and get back to what I used to do.
BoxingScene.com: I see Michael Katsidis recently appeared here on BoxingScene.com wanting a rematch with you. What are your thoughts on that?
Juan Diaz: My manager (Willie Savannah) told me about this morning and I would love the rematch. I beat him the first time and I think this time a fight with Katsidis would prove to myself and the whole world that I am not done yet. I think Katsidis would be a great fight to prove I am still around and to showcase what I have in store for
2010.
BoxingScene.com: Plus with Marquez likely moving up to 140 it probably would be for his belt as well.
Juan Diaz: That would be icing on the cake because a lot of people are doubting me right now and by me stepping in the ring and beating Katsidis I think that everybody will keep their eye on me the rest of 2010.
BoxingScene.com: Last time we talked you said you preferred not to fight in Houston because people will think you are getting preferential treatment from the judges because of the fight with Malignaggi. Katsidis said he would come to Houston. What are your thoughts on that?
Juan Diaz: It honestly wouldn't be my first choice to fight in Houston but if the fight is in Houston so be it. The last few times I fought here I packed the house and I think the fans here in Houston would love it. If its up to me I would much rather do it somewhere else but where ever it falls I am ready to do it.
BoxingScene.com: Did you catch the Valero DeMarco fight on Saturday?
Juan Diaz: Yes I sure did. Valero showed a lot of determination and skills, especially after he got cut. I think he really is improving as a boxer. The cut was nasty but his corner was able to control it pretty well and you have to give them props for that.
BoxingScene.com: Would you be interested in fighting him down the road?
Juan Diaz: Down the line definitely. I am moving back down to lightweight because I feel I am much stronger in this weight division. Whoever they put in front of me I am going to fight and beat. By Katsidis challenging me I think that he can be my first test. I am going to make an example of him that I am a force to be reckoned with
in the lightweight division.
BoxingScene.com: Do you have a target date for your return to the ring?
Juan Diaz: At this point I haven't heard anything from De la Hoya or my manager so I am just staying in shape so if something comes about I am ready to do it.
BoxingScene.com: Do you have a message for the fans?
Juan Diaz: I want the fans to know I am not done by any means. I am far from done. Look out for me this year because I plan on becoming the lightweight champion of the world. The only lightweight champion. It doesn't matter who steps in my way. I am going through him so be ready.
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