Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. Interview during Media Session

Posted on miamiherald.com the side of Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. as he publicly promoted the upcoming fight on February 27, 2010 during a media session Friday (Feb. 19) at the Miami Fight Gym.

Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. is under the guidance and supervision of his father Vazquez Sr. He will challenge the rising star as well of Philippines for the vacant WBO junior featherweight title.

Here's the excerpt of the interview to Vazquez Jr.:

``The anxiety I felt when we first heard about the fight is gone,'' Vazquez said. ``I am now more relaxed.

``The sacrifice paid off. One of the treasured rewards for a fighter is to become a world champion. Without discrediting my opponent, my hard work will pay off on Saturday.''

Vazquez (17-0-1, 14 KOs) did not feel pressured into boxing to follow his father. Instead, the elder Vazquez recommended other career options but supported his son once boxing became a priority.

``Like any kid, I was proud of my father,'' Vazquez Jr. said. ``If he would have been a lawyer, I would have been just as proud of him.

``In fact, I am more proud because I saw the physical reminders of his career. A lawyer does not have to go home and face his kids all bruised or cut.

``My father has been the foundation of it all. He did not want me to become a boxer. He wanted his children to have an education without the need to wake up early in the morning to train and work long hours in a gym.''

Vazquez Sr. believes his son is ready for the magnitude of a world championship setting. The younger Vazquez built up his record primarily in Kissimmee, where he has won 12 bouts and become a fan favorite, drawing capacity crowds at the city's Civic Center Arena. If Vazquez Jr. wins Saturday, the Vazquezes will join a select group of former champion fathers training their sons to a world title.

``He is young and very hungry,'' Vazquez Sr. said. ``I know this is a tremendous move up in importance, but he has worked very hard for this opportunity and will be ready.''

A victory Saturday also could allow Vazquez a balance between boxing and college.

``My friends thought I was crazy when I left school,'' Vazquez said. ``I just wanted to pursue my dream in boxing.

``If God-willing I win this fight, I might even consider resuming my studies right away. At that point your fight cycle changes and you are no longer required to fight every month or every other month. Time between fights is longer.

``I know how to balance myself.''

The clash of undefeated boxers on February 27, 2010 will mark another boxing history as two young fighters will compete with their desire. Who will win? A question to be answered on Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. vs. Marvin Sonsona!