The featherweight division has plenty of talent, led by titleholders Rafael Espinoza (WBO), Angelo Leo (IBF), and Bruce Carrington (WBC). Brandon Figueroa was the WBA champion, but he recently failed to make weight for his first defence and was stripped. None of the champions is overly active, and no unification fights seem likely anytime soon. Hot on the heels of the champions is the unbeaten Albert Gonzalez. “Chop Chop” is guided by renowned trainer Robert Garcia, who recently spoke to The Ring, tipping Gonzalez to replicate the success of Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez.
Albert Gonzalez set to shine on Navarrete vs Foster undercard
On October 24, “Chop Chop” Gonzalez (18-0, 11 KOs) will return to action against Edward Vazquez (20-3, 6 KOs). Vazquez has won three consecutive fights since being stopped against Espinoza.
Gonzalez has won his last four by stoppage and seems to be improving with every fight. Under the tutelage of Robert Garcia, it’s easy to see why many feel “Chop Chop” could reach the very top of the sport.
Robert Garcia tips Albert Gonzalez to replicate Bam’s success
Speaking to The Ring, Garcia made it clear just how far he believes “Chop Chop” can go:
“I see Chop replicating the same levels of success as Bam, one hundred percent.”
“Chop has the same level of hunger and talent as Bam has. Chop wants more and more every time, and he never gives up. He’s always first in the gym, and the last one out. He’s competitive to be the best at everything. They are both very similar in their approach and how bad they want it.
“Chop is very dedicated and disciplined and is always going to be in great shape for his fights. That’s a big plus. And once he gets inside the ring, he’s action-packed and combines an accumulation of punches very well. You can’t predict what’s coming because he puts everything together. It’s always something different,” added Garcia.
“A lot of trainers have only one fighter, and they can’t build another one,” Garcia said. “I have a great team around me, and we’re going to keep going. I have 15-year-olds right now who are as good and can be even better.
“But first we have to take care of business against Vazquez. It’s a tough fight against an experienced fighter, and Chop has to perform. After this next fight, he’s ready for any of the champions. We’re ready to fight whomever. We don’t want an easy route. I know how Top Rank works, and I trust them. If they say we need a couple of more fights, I’m okay with that. I believe he’s ready for anyone and can beat any of the champions.”
The Big Fight Weekend verdict
For anyone who has watched “Chop Chop”, it’s easy to see why he is so highly regarded by many.
He times his shots impressively and doesn’t rush his work. He’s adept at fighting at range or throwing at volume on the inside. “Chop Chop” is a brilliant body puncher, which, combined with his tight defence on the inside, makes him a fearsome opponent for anyone. He’s capable of slipping a punch and landing a brutal shot of his own in return.
We like what we’ve seen so far, and with the ability he has and having Robert Garcia in his corner, the sky really is the limit for Albert “Chop Chop” Gonzalez.
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Featured Image Credit:
Top Rank Boxing