Braveheart's Villanueva, Magbanua Invited To Train in U.S. with Former Valero Mentor

ROLANDO MAGBANUA

LORENZO VILLANUEVA

World Boxing Organization (WBO) Oriental Featherweight champion Lorenzo "Thunderbolt" Villanueva and former WBO Interim Aspac Bantamweight champion Rolando "Smooth Operator" Magbanua have been invited to train in the United States by legandary trainer Robert Alcazar in Maywood, California.

Jose Castillo, who managed former lightweight champion Edwin Valero and who arranged the training program, has officially asked the Consular Office of the American Embassy in Manila to allow Villanueva, Magbanua, chief trainer Noli Pinol and assistant trainer Bruce Lerio to travel to the US for a 2-month training program under Alcazar.

Villanueva, 24, a southpaw, is undefeated in his professional career with 20 wins and 19 KOs. He is scheduled to appear in the undercard of a Donnie Nietes show July 16 as part of ALA Boxing Promotions Pinoy Pride Series.

Magbanua, 25, who has a record of 19 wins, 14 KOs with 2 losses on points, is on a comeback trail after losing to compatriot Jason Igera, He is scheduled to fight in Gen. Santos City June 11.

Alcazar reportedly told Castillo that Villanueva has the potential of becoming another world champion from the Philippines because of his punching power and capacity to take a punch.

Even with his awesome pro record, Villanueva is still considered raw and needs refinement in his movements inside the ring, especially his defense.

Magbanua, on the other hand, hopes to be able to benefit from the training program through the improvement of his stamina and endurance which are his weak points.

In the US, Villanueva, Magbanua and two trainers are expected to stay with Braveheart Boxing Club cutman Jeff de Guzman in Glendale, California, about 30 minutes away from the Maywood Gym where they will train.

The team is tentatively scheduled to leave for the US after the July 16 fight of Villanueva.  [CARLOS BAUTISTA]