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Undefeated super middleweight fighter Jaime Munguia is set to team up with legendary coach Freddie Roach for his upcoming bout against John Ryder on January 27 in Phoenix. This marks the beginning of a new partnership for Munguia, who recently concluded a successful nine-fight collaboration with Hall of Fame fighter turned trainer Erik Morales.
The decision to part ways with Morales came as a result of his commitment to run for Mayor of Tijuana, according to Munguia's Mexico-based co-promoter Fernando Beltran. Beltran emphasized the need for full-time dedication in the sport of boxing, a quality he believes Roach possesses.
“A 100 percent yes. This will break the doors for us. We want the biggest and baddest guy out there next, and we'll see,” said Roach. “[Munguia] knocks [Ryder] out inside of eight rounds.”
With a storied career that includes coaching renowned fighters like Manny Pacquiao and Mike Tyson, Roach has established his Hollywood-based gym as a global boxing hub. Oscar De La Hoya, Munguia's promoter, expressed confidence in Roach's ability to elevate Munguia's performance, stating,
"We're very confident in Freddie Roach and his corner. He has the experience. He has the knowledge."
Munguia, who is coming off a tough win against Sergey Derevyanchenko, faces a new challenge in Ryder. Roach is unfazed by criticisms of Munguia's defense, asserting that they work on improving his skills daily. He believes Munguia's work ethic and versatility make him a complete fighter.
Looking ahead, Roach sees the Ryder fight as a stepping stone towards a potential showdown with Canelo Alvarez. He is optimistic about Munguia's chances, predicting a knockout victory within eight rounds. Roach is confident that a decisive win against Ryder will open doors for future opportunities and propel Munguia towards the biggest fights in the division.