At 41 years of age, Pablo Valdez is proving that age is only a quantity.
Valdez is about to face Eudy Bernardo in an eight-round welterweight bout on November 9 on the Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida.
Valdez, 7-0 (6 KOs), is raring to indicate he nonetheless has lots left as he continues coaching alongside tremendous middleweight contender Edgar Berlanga. Reflecting on his return to the game, Valdez expressed gratitude for the alternatives which have come his means.
“Once I first got here residence, I mentioned I wished to go 2-0, and I dreamed of combating in Madison Sq. Backyard,” Valdez instructed ProBox TV. “I’ve fought there thrice, Edgar received me in. Now, there are even greater alternatives coming my means, however I’m taking it one battle at a time.”
Berlanga, a longtime supporter and teammate, praised Valdez’s mindset and dedication. “He desires to encourage individuals who assume they’ll’t do issues due to their age,” Berlanga instructed ProBox TV. “It’s not about how previous you’re – it’s concerning the energy of your thoughts and the way far you’ll be able to push your self.”
Valdez’s opponent, Eudy Bernardo, 25-7 (18 KOs), is a battle-tested 37-year-old from the Dominican Republic, having confronted the likes of Mario Barrios. Regardless of Bernardo’s expertise, Valdez stays assured. “I wish to battle, and I like to come back ahead, however now, I’m engaged on being good – utilizing angles,” Valdez mentioned.
For Valdez, this battle is one other likelihood to show that age is just not a barrier, however a badge of honor. “Once I got here residence at 33, lots of people instructed me to not battle,” Valdez mentioned. “Now, at 41, I’m sparring with these younger guys. My assertion is straightforward – I wish to show that I nonetheless received it.”
Wanting forward, Valdez hinted at one thing huge on the horizon. “I received an enormous alternative that I actually can’t discuss,” Valdez mentioned. “But when that comes, I’m going to take it.”
Whether or not by way of his knockout energy or tenacity, Valdez’s story is one among perseverance and empowerment. As Berlanga summed it up, “He’s fought on the largest platforms, and he’s finished it at 39, 40, and 41. He’s a legend, and he doesn’t even understand it, however he’s a legend already.”