Super flyweight Juan “El Loquito” Kantun (21-6-3, 15 KOs) of Merida, Yucatan, Mexico will make both his U.S. and Telemundo debut This Friday. Kantun will take on Jonathan “Pitbull” Vidal (17-2, 9 KOs) of Guaynabo, Puerto Rico in the main event bout scheduled over ten rounds for the WBO Latino title. Boxeo Telemundo Ford will air the event from the Kissimmee Civic Center in Central Florida. Those who saw Kantun’s lasts fight against unbeaten world champion Roman “Chocalitito” Gonzalez this past February know that Kantun is not lacking in courage. He stood toe to toe with Gonzalez for nearly six rounds before a stoppage loss. Fightnews caught up to him prior to his departure to the U.S. days before his big fight.
You’re actually coming up in weight for this fight from your last. Is 115 your best weight?
I can still make 112 with no problem. This fight is a very good opportunity for me. I feel real strong at 115. .
You fought valiantly in your loss to Gonzalez. What did you learn the most from that fight?
Gonzalez is the most complete fighter I have ever fought. I mean he does so many things right in the ring. He knows how to cut the ring off, he doesn’t stop throwing punches, he can make you miss, and the list goes on. That fight showed me that there are some many things I can still do to improve as a fighter and get better.
How is your confidence having lost 2 of your last 3 fights?
My confidence is very high. I mean Gonzalez is on the top 10 pound for pound list for best fighters in the world. David Sanchez is a current interim world champion and Rocky Fuentes just fought for a world title. I was competitive in all those fights. Those are top tier fighters in their perspective weight divisions. I’m not down at all about those losses. They will make me better.
Where did you get the nickname “El Loquito” (little crazy boy)?
When I was younger my behavior fit the name and people in the neighborhood just started calling me it. It’s stuck with every since. I have matured a lot since then fortunately.
Would you say boxing has had a big impact on your maturity?
Absolutely. If you’re serious about being a professional boxer then there are a lot good things that can come from it. In my case I have gained a lot of discipline. In order for me to be in top condition and make my weight properly I have to be disciplined. I know I must stay focused and live a clean life. Economically it has allowed for me to provide for my family and be responsible.
How excited are you to be debuting both on Telemundo and on U.S soil?
This a HUUUGE opportunity for me. So many people will get to see me on Telemundo Friday and people will see me fight in person in the U.S. for the first time as well. It definitely will be worth tuning in to watch me or come to see me live. I definitely won’t disappoint with my effort in the ring.
Doors open 7:30 PM, First bell at 8:30 PM. Telemundo Network available in HD will televise main event starting at 11:35 PM. Tuto Zabala, Jr., All Star Boxing, Inc is presenting the show. The De Jesus fight is in association with 50 Cent SMS Promotions and the Mercado bout with Top Rank. Tickets are already on sale from only $20.00 at Kissimmee Civic Center 201 E. Dakin Ave, Downtown Kissimmee, FL or by calling 407-935-1412.
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