Undefeated Junior Featherweight sensation Roberto Benitez makes his New York debut on Wednesday night, as he will be a part Joe Deguardia’s Star boxing promoted card emanating from White Plains, New York in the cozy confines of the Westchester County Center. It will be a home coming of some sorts for Benitez who hails from New York’s infamous 6th borough, the Lower East Side. Benitez a native of the Dominican Republic was a member of the 2004 United States Olympic team. Boxingtalk.com was able to speak to the former US Boxing Olympic Team Captain.
“I been alright just training hard and looking forward to getting back in the ring after a long lay off,” said Benitez
“I am happy to be fighting in New York, but I don’t look at it really like a home coming, I mean White Plains is not where I grew up. But it certainly feels good fighting close to home. It’s still close enough that I should have a lot support from my family and friends”, said Benitez.
The last time Benitez laced up his gloves was earlier this year on April 2nd when he earned a 2nd round stoppage. The folks of Florida had the pleasure of seeing Benitez in action, however thanks to ESPN brain trust this US Olympian was left of television in favor of lesser known talent.
“I was disappointed that I did not make it to television but that’s out of my control, hopefully the next time I get that opportunity to display myself on television but for right now though I am focused on improving my skills and taking myself to that next level”, said Benitez.
“Having a promoter is a good thing and it certainly makes it easier to get fights. I am looking to have my career receive more exposure. I am glad that Star boxing does a lot of shows on the east coast and that should make it a little easier for my people to see me. Its hard finding opponents especially when you come into the pros with a good background and good reputation,” said Benitez.
Benitez recently signed a promotional deal with fellow New Yorker Joe Deguardia and his Star Boxing Promotions. To date Benitez career has taken a slower pace than most fighters who own such a standout amateur pedigree. The 26 year old who fought in over 150 amateur fights and who was the US representative (119 pound weight division) in the 2004 Olympic Games is making only his 5th fight as a professional. The junior featherweight is aware that he is a little behind some other fighters, however he feels that he really does not have to take a backseat to any of his contemporaries.
“I am looking to finish 2006 very strong. Hopefully everything will go well on Wednesday and I plan on taking 3 or 4 or more fights before the end of the year. Why not? I work for this; this is why I keep myself in shape. I’m always ready to fight,” said Benitez.
Despite Benitez’s professional career being in its infancy the undefeated blue chip prospect has gotten more notoriety then most of the sports pound for pound royalty. Recently the photogenic Benitez was featured in a 5 page spread in the July Issue of the popular FHM Magazine. Benitez points out that the celebrity that he has attained for the magazine feature is not something that has made lose focus on his profession. Benitez takes his career very serious.
“I’m always mentally ready to fight. I really look up to Bernard Hopkins and the way he always kept his body it top shape. I live and believe in a healthy life style. I eat healthy and I’m always in the gym”, stated Benitez.
Benitez who’s owns a pro record of 4-0 with 3 knockouts is scheduled to be matched up in his first 6 round match up.
“Not knowing who I am fighting is kind of like in the amateurs. It’s rare that you get to see an opponent, so this is nothing new to me. I take everyone serious who is in there with me. I know that little by little my opponents will get better and I know that I will get better,” said Benitez.
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