Twenty seven year old Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero is already something many great fighters never will be; a champion outside of the ring. Unlike numerous boxers who have failed to serve as a positive role model, Guerrero, a three time titleholder, isn’t just fighting for money, he’s fighting for a cause.
Guerrero’s wife Casey was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in 2007 and has been undergoing treatment to help her overcome the dangerous disease that affects more than 250,000 Americans. The Gilroy, CA native is actively involved with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) and is an integral part of a fundraising project to help combat the illness.
I had the chance to catch up with Guerrero, who battles fellow California Vicente Escobedo Saturday night at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ as part of an HBO doubleheader.
Matt Yanofsky: This Saturday you will be taking on 2000 Olympian Vicente Escobedo. Many would agree that a poor performance by him will spell his days as a noteworthy fighter. Do you think that perhaps he will be tougher than you anticipate?
Robert Guerrero: I don’t know what the critics think of him, all I know is I’m preparing for a tough fight. Escobedo is an Olympian and you don’t get there by being an average fighter. He does a lot of good things in the ring and I expect him to be the best he’s ever been in any fight. He has a new trainer and he’s confident. He’s ready to go as am I.
MY: Escobedo definitely wasn’t the people’s choice for this fight, especially considering he was clearly out pointed in his last fight against Michael Katsidis and doesn’t really have a marquee win. Who else did they offer and why do you think those fights weren’t made?
RG: That question is for my management team. My job is to get in the ring and fight the person they put in front of me. I don’t look at an opponent, that’s my manager’s job. I never turn down a fight. Vicente is ranked #2 by the WBO so he’s a worthy opponent in my opinion.
MY: Your wife Casey has battled Leukemia during the last few years and I know her condition has been up and down. Has her condition made it harder for you to focus on training?
RG: It was very difficult juggling my career, her battle and taking care of the kids. Now that she is doing better, I can focus more on my boxing career and training. She’s doing great right now.
MY: You have been jumping around in weight a bit during the last few years. Are you planning to stay at 135 or also fight at 140?
RG: My goal is to win a championship at 135 then move up to 140. If a big fight presents itself at 140 then I’ll take it.
MY: Some critics would argue that you haven’t battled the top fighters at 126-135 and your best win is against an over the hill Joel Casamayor. Although you have had some decent showcases, what do you think the reason is that you haven’t fought an elite opponent that is in their prime, especially considering who Golden Boy has in their stable?
RG: Everything happens for a reason. I’ve had to go through some trials and tribulations in and out of the ring. I’m a big believer in Jesus Christ and I know God has a plan from me to do something special in boxing. I’m happy with Golden Boy, they treat my team and I very well. I’m just going to keep on trucking and do my best to keep winning. The big fight will be there as long as I continue to win.
MY: There has been some recent press about your documentary. What can you tell us about it?
RG: The documentary can be seen at www.theghostdocumentary.com. The film is being directed by Andrew Johnston who also films for the NY Jets. He’s a great talent and he’s telling my story about my comeback from vacating my title earlier this year. It’s coming along great.
MY: What is your game plan come Saturday night?
RG: I’m going to come with everything. I’m leaving everything in the ring on fight night.
MY: Who is on your radar if you are victorious?
RG: My only focus is Escobedo. But I have to say it would be an honor to fight the great Mexican champion, Juan Manuel Marquez if he can get past Katsidis.
MY: Thanks for your time and best of luck Saturday. Our prayers are with you’re family for Casey to regain full health. What do you have to say in closing to your fans all around the world and the readers of 15rounds.com?
RG: I want to thank all the fans of boxing, not just my fans. Like the late Chuck Bodak used to say, if it wasn’t for the fans there would be no boxing. Also, tune in this Saturday for a great night of boxing. Escobedo and I are going to war.
