22.02.07 – By Michael Marley/Boxingconfidential.com: This just in to the We Never Sleep Boxingconfidential.com red hot scoop parlor. Manager Willie Savannah confirmed tonight from his Savannah Boxing Club HQs in Southwest Houston that he and his undefeated WBA lightweight king Juan “Papa Bull’ Diaz have accepted major terms and conditions for an April 28 title defense against Brazilian national ring hero Acelino “Popo” Freitas. “I am hoping they can put this great fight on somewhere in Vegas,” Savannah said. “We know it’s a tough fight and a big step up for Juan. I’d like to see it Vegas where all the international media will be gathered for the De La Hoya-Mayweather fight.” ..
Freitas, adroitly brought up to the big-time level by Artie “Big Cigars But No Philly Blunts” Pelullo, is age 31 and owns a 38-1 record with 32 big KOs. His only loss, of course, came when he got stopped by Chico Corrales in 10 rounds. In his last bout, Freitas squeaked by with a split decision verdict over clever boxer Zahir Raheem. College student Diaz, age 23, is 31-0 with 15 knockouts.
“We changed the nickname,” Savannah said. “I told Juan that, at 23, he is not a Baby Bull anymore, now he’s the Papa Bull. I don’t know exactly how Juan will win this fight against this great ex-champion but I do know Juan will win. Juan is a great volume puncher. Juan will be all right.”
Savannah recently put out a challenge to Manny Pacquiao which went unanswered.
“That’s not usually our style but I know Pacman was coming to Texas so we challenged him,” Savannah said. “Juan feels excellent about facing Freitas. Juan wants to fight all the top guys, believe me. He wants Pacquiao, he wants Ricky Hatton, you name him and Juan will fight him. Bring on all the top guys.”
Savannah, who has operated his Houston gym and youth boxing program for 27 years, is a generous soul who raised nine underprivileged youths in his own house as though they were his sons.
“Not a one became a boxer,” Savannah said. “They all become good football players.”