by Eric “Sugar Foot” Duran
The gatekeepers are former champs, holding the strap until someone dethrones them. They’re fighters who take fights on short notice for a paycheck.
Their phone is never silent as big-time promoters are constantly calling for their services. They’re the backbone of boxing as, simply, the opponent.
David Rodela– Rodela was a highly-respected amateur, turning pro in 2004 after winning the 2004 US National Championship. Unfortunately, a draw in his debut was a sign of things to come.
At 17-10-3, Rodela never lived up to expectations. However, he has garnered the respect of Manny Pacquiao, serving as his main sparring partner since 2009.
His resume includes, Jose Ramirez, Jorge Linares, Ronnie Rios, Terence Crawford and Kevin Kelley. He has served as a sparring partner for Antonio Margarito, Victor Ortiz, Zab Judah and Ricky Hatton
Davarryl Williamson– a career of “almosts” sums up that of Williamson. He was a decorated amateur with a record of 120-17-1, falling short of the Olympics in ’96 and ’00.
As a pro, he faced Ray Austin, Kali Meehan, Chris Byrd, Oliver McCall, Joe Mesi and Wladimir Klitschko. He’s claimed the WBC Continental, NABF, NABO and WBO Latin American titles.
However, he fell short in his attempts to claim the IBF and WBC World Titles. “Touch Of Sleep” was revered for his punching power
Peter Manfredo Jr- “The Contender’s” inaugural runner-up could never win the big bout. He competed for, and lost out on, the WBO and WBC Super Middleweight titles.
The Pride of Providence has faced Sergio Mora(2), Alfonso Gomez(2), Joe Calzaghe, Jeff Lacy, Sakio Bika and Julio Cesar Chavez Jr.
At 40-7, Manfredo is the former NABF Super Middleweight Champion.
Lanardo Tyner– Tyner is now competing in his 10th year as a pro. He’s complied a record of 31-11-2, facing some stiff competition.
His resume includes, Antonio DeMarco, Jessie Vargas, Vivian Harris, Canelo Alvarez and Lamont Peterson
He has competed for the NABF Light Welterweight Title(2), the NABF and NABA Welterweight titles. He is the current WBC United States Welterweight Champion
Hector Munoz- The Hurricane is a cult-like figure in the 505, Albuquerque, NM. Munoz started his career with a 18-1 record. However, he is only 5-12-1 since.
He has competed for the NABA, NABO and NABF Welterweight Titles. Also, he has competed for the WBA Fedelatin Title. He once held the WBC United States Welterweight Title.
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