Texan, Jerry Belmontes, 16-0, 5 KOs is not concerned about coming to the East Coast for the first time in his career to take on Joselito Collado, 13-1, 3 KOs, for his afternoon fight on Saturday, September 8th at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ. The amateur superstar-turned-undefeated- professional-prospect has never been to this side of the country before.
“It’s a good feeling to go to New Jersey,” Belmontes said. “Never been there. First time as a pro or amateur. I’ve heard good things about New Jersey.”
Although the “Corpus Christi Kid” is used to having his large home-state fan base behind him when he fights, he doesn’t feel he needs them to be there when he faces Collado on Saturday afternoon.
“No concerns. None,” Belmontes said. ” I’m not fighting New Jersey, I’m fighting him. We’re feeling good about this fight, and we’re going to NJ to get that “W”.”
Although he’s never faced the wrath of an East Coast boxing crowd, fighting in hostile territory is not new to the jr. lightweight from Texas.
“When I fought in Los Angeles, I fought a guy from there. It was a packed house, and I had the whole crowd booing me. I came out victorious on that card. Boo me, whatever, but I’m not fighting them.”
Belmontes has faced some good fighters in his 4-year career, but Collado, also a rising prospect, is probably the best opponent he’s faced thus far.
“On paper, he’s my best match,” Belmontes said. “He’s 13-1, but I’ve fought better opponents than him. He can take a punch, but basically that’s all I can say (positive) about him. I see a lot of mistakes in his defense and offense, and I’m going to capitalize and I’m going to take him out.”
Belmontes says he’s prepared to head East and make an impression.
“Training camp was great,” Belmontes said. “I’m in great shape. I’m thankful he took the fight. It’s a big step up for him. So I appreciate him taking the fight. And to be on a big card like this? I’m blessed.”
Belmontes and Collado fight their scheduled 8-rounder prior to the big heavyweight triple header that includes Tomasz Adamek vs. Travis Walker, Steve Cunningham vs. Jason Gavern, and Bryant Jennings vs. Chris Koval.
