By James Slater: The news broke this week, how ultra-experienced former world title challenger “Fast” Fres Oquendo has signed on to take part in the May 7th “Prizefighter: The International Heavyweights.” This is exciting news, and the talented Puerto Rican joins a confirmed list of Kevin Johnson, Mike Perez, Michael Sprott and Konstantin Airich (with three other names yet to be confirmed).
Thanks to Fres and his promoter Tom Tsatas, I was able to speak with the 32-7(21) contender today.
Speaking about the upcoming May 7th tourney and other things, the always-friendly Oquendo had the following things to say:
James Slater: It’s great to speak with you, Fres. I for one think you can win this Prizefighter tourney, with your skill and class. You’ve been sparring with David Haye, of course – he recommended you for the show on May 7th?
Fres Oquendo: God willing, I will win this tournament. I have sparred countless rounds with David Haye; since 2005/2006. He is back here [5th Street Gym] on Monday. I’m in great condition and I feel I can specialise in a three-round, terrain tournament. But yes, I can thank David for recommending me for this opportunity.
J.S: Have you ever fought in the UK before?
F.O: No, I never have – but I’ve always wanted to. I’ve boxed all over the world, but never in London. I look forward to at last putting that right now. My resume speaks for itself, and guys like Kevin Johnson (who is also in for May 7th) can’t carry my jockstrap! I’m highly motivated to win this, and I know what these guys can bring – nothing like what I can bring.
J.S: I have to agree with you, Fres – with your experience and class, you can definitely win this thing! The only thing the critics would say, though, is that you will have to be more aggressive in these fights, seeing as they are only three-rounds. Will you be?
F.O: Absolutely I’ll be more aggressive. I know what these guys bring, and there’s no stopping me. I will have enough power. Guys like James Toney, Oliver McCall and others could never hurt me. I am so confident ahead of this tournament.
J.S: You’ve been the victim of so many bad decisions over the years, yet you never complain ;you just get on with the next fight. Will Winning this be a trophy you’ve always deserved?
F.O: I’ve never worried about what the critics or the judges say: they’re guys who have never been in the ring in their life. Like I say, I’m hugely motivated for this [tournament] and I’m coming to win. I can outbox and I can out punch my opposition.