(June 17, 2010 – Pawtucket, RI) With just a week to go until he is scheduled to take center stage in front of a crazed hometown crowd, Edwin Rodriguez took part in a media workout on Thursday at Manfredo’s Gym to showcase just how ready he is. Rodriguez shadow boxed, hit the pads with trainer Peter Manfredo, Sr., and put in some rounds in the heavy bag before the assembled members of the press..
Rodriguez (15-0, 11 KOs) takes on Gabriel Holguin on June 24 from Mechanics Hall in Worcester, Mass. in the main event of Homecoming II, a special presentation of the Broadway Boxing series, promoted by DiBella Entertainment. In the co-feature, junior lightweight Ryan Kielczewski of Quincy, MA will take on Juan Nazario. Heavyweight Rashad Minor of Worcester will also see action, along with fast rising light heavyweight Isiah Thomas out of Detroit, Michigan.
Tickets for Broadway Boxing at Mechanics Hall are available at mechanicshall.org or by calling the Mechanics Hall box office at (508) 752-0888. Prices are $155 for VIP Ringside, $80 for Front Row Balcony, $60 for Floor Seats and $40 for Balcony Seats.
Below are quotes from Edwin, as he speaks about his preparation for June 24:
“I feel blessed to have so many top tiered fighters training at Manfredo’s Gym with me. Sparring with IBO champion Peter Manfredo, Jr., IBF number one rated Jesse Brinkley, and former world title challenger Elvin Ayala has really helped hone my skills for my upcoming bout with Holguin. I feel as though I am knocking on the door to a world title fight. With a couple more quality bouts I will be in prime position to challenge for my first world title.”
“I am coming up on my second year with a full time strength and conditioning coach and I feel like my body is now that of a man. I am confident that I can bang with any fighter at this level. My trainer has pushed me very hard for this camp, as Holguin is a tough fighter who keeps coming forward. I plan on matching his aggression with my superior physical skills.”
“My fight strategy is simple. Hammer this kid to the body until he can’t breathe, and then watch him fall down like the last two opponents I fought on national TV. I have shown in my last two fights that I have KO power in both my left and right hands. This guy is going to be in for a long night, or maybe a short night. Either way they should have oxygen on standby for him.”