10.02.05 – By Coach Tim Walker – On the eve of his nationally televised bout with Oscar Larios on the “Best Damn Sports Show Period”, Wayne McCullough, also know as the Pocket Rocket, graciously granted me a brief interview. During our conversation he was very specific about his goals, his experience and his position in the world of professional boxing. The fight is scheduled at 8pm on FOX Sports Net (FSN).
Walker – Wayne what do you figure your chances are against the younger Larios?
McCullough – I’ve been a champion before and have been in camp for a while. I know that he is the younger man and is considered the best 122-pounder in the world but I think he is going to be in for a big fight tomorrow night..
Walker – Do you feel that this fight is a stepping stone fight for bigger and better things for you?
McCullough – This fight is an opportunity to get back into the mix of things. I don’t look at it as being a stepping-stone because I don’t look past any fighters but it is an opportunity to show what I can do. I think he is really well known but so am I.
Walker – Your opponent is 54-3-1(35) and considered widely the best 122-pounder in the world. Assuming you are victorious tomorrow what would be your next move?
McCullough – I’d really like to defend the title in my native country of Ireland and then get a really big fight in Las Vegas. I’m from Belfast and haven’t fought there since 1996 and haven’t fought in Dublin since 2002. I’d like to take the show back to Ireland and give the people there a real treat. Manny Pacquiao and Erik Morales are scheduled to fight in March and after I win tomorrow I’d take on either of them in June or July.
Walker – How do you stack up to Larios?
McCullough – I recognize who he is and yes he is tough but I’m tougher. I fought 14 years as an amateur and almost as long as a pro. He’s tough guy but I’m tougher and I’m going to show that tomorrow. I will basically take advantage of what he gives me.
Walker – Did you add anyone special to your corner tomorrow or will it be your basic setup?
McCullough – Freddy Roach is my trainer and he is the best trainer in the world. I teamed up with him last year and he has revitalized career. Expect to see great things tomorrow.
Walker – If you could pick any fighter in the world at super bantamweight to fight after your fight tomorrow who would you chose?
McCullough – Well you know IBF champion Israel Vazquez is in the same camp with me and I think that would be a dream fight but this is a business and it ultimately comes down to money. You know, he is a professional and I am a professional and if it came down to I would assume that we could do it and shake hands at the end. If that fight came about I would do it.
Look for a post fight interview to follow.