Pagara Faces Nicaraguan in Pinoy Pride 33 on Oct. 17

Albert Pagara, 21, is in for a tough fight against former world title contender Wiliam Gonzalez of Nicaragua for the vacant World Boxing Organization (WBO) International super bantamweight belt in the main supporting bout of Pinoy Pride 33 – “Philippines vs. The World” at the StubHub Center in Carson, California on Oct. 17.

“This will be a real test for Albert as Gonzalez has fought the best and is a veteran, he (Gonzalez) also had time to rest because he was looking for bigger fights. This should be the toughest opponent Albert will face. With 23 knockouts in 27 wins, it’s proven that he’s a dangerous puncher,” ALA Promotions president Michael Aldeguer said.

Gonzalez, 34, has an impressive 27-5 slate that includes 23 wins by knockout.

He once fought for a world title against Joseph Agbeko but lost by a majority decision.

He also fought two-division world champion Jhonny Gonzalez but lost by knock out and beat ex-world titleholder Mauricio Martinez by split decision.

“I don’t think this fight, with an impressive win, would tell us if he’s ready to fight for a world title, but it will make him ready at the right time if he passes the test,” Aldeguer said. (PNA) CTB/EB/MP/SSC