"Quiles is a southpaw, but unfortunately for him I don’t have a problem with southpaws. Quiles has speed and he’s a boxer, and that’ my specialty."

BoxingTalk:  Julio, how is your training camp going for your fight against Ricky Quiles?

Julio Diaz:  It’s been going great.  So far I’ve had a smooth training camp, and we have had very intensive training.  We’re on weight, in shape, and confident.  I’ve been working hard to put on a good show.

BoxingTalk:  This is your first fight for 2006.  Why the long layoff and how eager are you to get back in the ring?

Julio Diaz:  We were waiting around for something like this fight to happen.  My promoter and myself were being patient for the right opportunity.  I’m very anxious to get back in the ring.  I never stopped training, and I’m ready to go

BoxingTalk:  In your last two fights, you have sent your opponents to the showers before the first round ended.  Are you looking to continue that streak against Quiles?

Julio Diaz:  No, not at all.  I’m looking to win, but Quiles is a different opponent.  It might come in 30 seconds or it may never come, but I ensure you I will win and I can confirm that on May 18th.

BoxingTalk:  What do you feel will be the biggest factor in ensuring yourself a victory against Quiles on May 18th?

Julio Diaz:  Just being myself, with the same discipline.

BoxingTalk: When we have talked before you mentioned the desire you have to fight WBA champ Juan Diaz.  Has there been any progress made by you and your promoters Sycuan Ringside Promotions to get that fight?

Julio Diaz:  No, I’ve kind of got bored of that.  I want to move on.  I don’t want to play games.  I want to give a fight that my fans want to see.

BoxingTalk:  What do you feel a win against Quiles will do for your career?

Julio Diaz:  It will make sure that I’m champion again.  From there I will have a shot at Jesus Chavez, and from there there’s no stopping me.

BoxingTalk:  Do you feel Quiles is your toughest fight since your loss to Jose Luis Castillo?

Julio Diaz:  I think they’re all the same.  They’re all tough in their own ways.  Quiles is a southpaw, but unfortunately for him I don’t have a problem with southpaws.  Quiles has speed and he’s a boxer, and that’ my specialty.

BoxingTalk:  You are going for the title that you had to give up in order to fight Jose Luis Castillo.  Will winning the IBF Lightweight title be even better the 2nd time around?

Julio Diaz:  It will be a lot better for me.  I’m enjoying this and I’m going to have fun.

BoxingTalk:  Will you continue to step up in competition after this title shot?

Julio Diaz:  Definitely.  I’ve always proved that I want to fight the best.  I don’t want to beat bum fighters, I can’t even enjoy something like that.

BoxingTalk:  If everything goes well next month, what can we expect from you for the remainder of the year?

Julio Diaz:  I’ll come back as soon as possible to come back even better, and make defenses.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE

Send questions and comments to: DNick@BoxingTalk.com