Rolando Romero and Ismael Barroso held their pre-fight presser as they square off for the vacant WBA light welterweight title on May 13th, 2023.
‘Rolly’, who has a record of 14 wins and one loss with 12 knockouts, had been on course to face Alberto Puello initially.
However, following the latter’s failed VADA test, Puello was declared the champion in recess.
As such, Romero has an opportunity that did not look possible following his last fight when he was knocked out by Gervonta Davis in the sixth round.
While that may have been the case, Romero suggested that he had issues with fighting at 135 lbs. This time around it is not a problem at 140 lbs.
Not only that, but Berraso is 40 years old, making Romero a favorite going into it. And that is precisely how the American saw things playing out.
“I think Barroso is a better fighter than Alberto Puello because he can crack. Any time you’re in a fight with a puncher, you know it’s going to be difficult. I’m not underestimating him. I know he can hit, and he’s a little tricky.
“He throws a good straight left that comes out of nowhere that he’s been getting guys with. So I’m not underestimating him. Everyone can expect to see ‘Rolly’ with the world title around his waist Saturday night,” Romero
Despite those words, there is danger that Romero could be overlooking his opponent. This is particularly since he keen on facing Davis in a rematch.
And since Barroso is at the twilight of his career, there is a bigger incentive to leave it all in the ring. However, that has not stopped Romero from looking ahead.
“It needs to happen. I’m trying to figure out who Gervonta is going to fight next…The most entertaining option is going to be Rolly.
“He already had a belt at 140. Why wouldn’t he fight at 140? I’m going to say it like this. We’re going to find a way to make that s**t happen. The cut to 135? I passed out twice the night before. I was f***d up. I thought I was blacked out drunk,” Romero