MANILA — Unbeaten prospect Kenneth Llover of General Trias, Cavite is preparing for the biggest challenge of his career, as he faces Keita Kurihara for the OPBF bantamweight title on March 24 at Korakuen Hall in Tokyo, Japan.
Llover, with a flawless 13-0 record and 8 knockouts, demonstrated his readiness earlier today at Penalosa Sports Center in Paranaque.
The 24-year-old prospect sparred eight rounds before hitting the speedball, double-end bag, and wrapping up with jump rope and shadowboxing.
“My focus is on winning the OPBF bantamweight championship with every training session,” Llover said in a media interview.
Despite Kurihara’s impressive record of 19-8-1 with 16 knockouts, Llover believes he brings a unique challenge to the table.
“He hasn’t faced anyone like me. He’s fought flat-footed opponents who just stand in front of him. But what happens when he meets someone who can move and grind it out? That’s when he’ll be tested,” Llover remarked.
Kurihara has the advantage in terms of experience and home crowd support, but Llover remains confident. “I’ll stick to my game plan, but if the chance to go toe-to-toe arises, I’ll take it. I predict a tough fight, and if the opportunity for a knockout comes, I’ll take it.”
Llover’s focus and discipline will be crucial in maintaining his perfect record and securing the title in what promises to be a thrilling contest.
ia/mnm
