Photos by Brett Ostrowski – Team Gonzalez
GILROY, Calif. (Nov. 7, 2017) – Unbeaten Colombian power-puncher Janer Gonzalez (19-0-1, 15 KOs) takes a major step up in competition when he faces unbeaten Russian prospect Radzhab Butaev (7-0, 6 KOs; WSOB: 9-1) this Friday, Nov. 10, at the Masonic at Templelive Cleveland in downtown Cleveland. The scheduled eight-round welterweight bout will be telecast on the popular ShoBox: The New Generation series LIVE on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast).
Gonzalez, who is coached by Ruben Guerrero Sr., recently shared his training camp experience as his showdown with Butaev nears. Gonzalez, who is making his United States and SHOWTIME debut, last fought in September of this year.
Here is what Gonzalez had to say ahead of Friday night’s fight.
On his recent training camp with Ruben Guerrero Sr.:
“My good friend Oscar Escandon introduced me to Mr. Guerrero about a month ago. I came to California to start training with Ruben shortly after. It’s been a great transition and training camp has been very productive. I’ve been sparring every other day since I got here. I’m in good shape and I’m ready to perform at my best this Friday.”
On facing undefeated Russian prospect Radzhab Butaev:
“I know I have a tough fight ahead of me, but I’m ready for the challenge. Butaev had a tremendous amateur career, but so did I. I have over 300 amateur fights under my belt and there is nothing Butaev will bring to the ring that I haven’t already seen. We equally have a lot of power, so the fans can expect to see some big shots being thrown by both of us. I’m going to leave everything in the ring come fight night.”
On making his U.S. debut and what a victory on Showtime will do for his career:
“Fighting on SHOWTIME is a tremendous blessing for me. This is my first fight in America and I going to make it special. The exposure I will get can take my career to the next level, especially if I come out victorious. A win will garner me some big fights and some big paydays. I’m fighting for my family and my countrymen in Colombia. My motivation is at an all-time high and the boxing world will know my name after this fight.