Gerry Penalosa Retires!
By Dennis Principe
06.01 - One of the most illustrious and perhaps controversial boxing career the Philippines has ever produced has officially ended.
Former WBC superflyweight champion Gerry Peñalosa announced his retirement in a press conference held yesterday at the Bayview Park Hotel in Manila.
The 30-year old Peñalosa (46-5-2, 31 KO's) mainly cited the decision of his manager, Rudy Salud to retire as manager as his reason to end his boxing career that once made him the toast of Philippine sports.
I guess its time to end my career. Its a difficult decision and its hard for me to continue fighting without my manager by my side. Said Peñalosa who was referring to Salud.
Peñalosa also admitted that eventhough he felt he won his recent fight against WBC champion Masamori Tokuyama, he is already past his prime.
Two weeks after the Masamori fight I felt that my mind is telling me I can still fight. But my body could not already stand the wear and tear of the sport. I also fear for the future of my family. Peñalosa revealed who was also accompanied by wife Goody.
Peñalosa expressed his gratitude to those people who helped him to be successful in his career, particularly former managers Antonio Aldeguer, Rex Wakee Salud and Atty. Salud.
Though he has officially retired, Peñalosa bared that he will continue to be involved in boxing and assured support to Saluds continuing and passionate quest to develop world champions for the honor and glory of the country.
Salud for his part disclosed that Peñalosas retirement does not mean they will abandon the sport of boxing. Salud agreed to support Peñalosas plan to scout the whole of Negros Occidental and Cebu including Mindanao to look for appropriate talents.
Salud said he is still keeping his mind open about the possibility of managing promising boxers most especially if these fighters passes Peñalosas standard.
As we all know, Gerry learned a lot from the best in the sport. He was with Roy Jones training camp and later at Freddie Roachs Wild Card Gym. If it passes Gerrys standard, I will send them to Freddie (Roach) for a look over for about 30-45 days. bared Salud.