Magdaleno faces next test vs. Lucero
A year from now, Diego Magdaleno hopes to be fighting for a world championship at 130 pounds. But the unbeaten NABF super featherweight champion from Las Vegas still has some work to do before getting his chance.
Magdaleno (20-0, seven knockouts) will be tested for patience against veteran Emmanuel Lucero in the main event tonight at the Islander Ballroom at Mandalay Bay. It’s a test Magdaleno said he needs to pass if he intends to stay on the path to a world title shot.
“I have to be smart, stay in my game plan and on point,” Magdaleno said. “(Lucero) is a brawler. He’s going to come right at me and try to take me out. But if I stay outside the danger zone, use my defense and counter, I should be fine.”
Trainer Pat Barry said Magdaleno continues to be fundamentally sound in the gym, and he’s throwing his punches sharper and at better angles.
“It’s a steady progression,” Barry said. “He’s got strength and power. Now we’re trying to refine his technique.”
Magdaleno and younger brother Jesse continue to work with strength coach Mike Afanasiev. For tonight’s fight with Lucero (26-7-1, 14 KOs), Diego Magdaleno said the emphasis has been on conditioning.
“We added some sprinting and long runs,” he said. “More cardio and less strength this time.”
Barry said he thinks Magdaleno is ready for a title shot with his next fight. Magdaleno said it might be better to wait to see when Top Rank matchmakers Bruce Trampler and Brad Goodman decide he’s ready.
“I’m sure a year from now I’ll get my chance,” he said.
Jesse Magdaleno (6-0, four KOs) will be on the undercard, facing Gil Garcia (5-1, one KO) in a six-round super bantamweight bout. Also on the undercard will be Filipino lightweight Mercito Gesta (23-0-1, 12 KOs), who will meet Ricardo Dominguez (34-6-2, 21 KOs) in a 10-round bout.
The first bell is scheduled for 5 p.m.
Contact reporter Steve Carp at scarp@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2913. Follow him on Twitter: @stevecarprj.