Pagara wants rematch vs. tormentor Juarez

One wants to make a name for himself and break into the world boxing scene, while the other wants to redeem himself after a devastating knockout loss.

Jeo Santisima is eager to to break into the world rankings and get a step closer to a coveted world title shot. Albert Pagara, on the other hand, wants to vanquish his demons and return to his once dominant form.

“I’m ready for a regional title if given the chance,” said the 21-year- old native of Masbate.

But before that, Santisima has to get past unbeaten Tanzanian Goodluck Mrema in the main feature of Pinoy Pride 41 - “The New Generation Warriors” on July 8 at the IEC Convention Center (IC3) in Mabolo.

Fighting mostly in the undercard of Pinoy Pride shows, Santisima is thrilled to finally be given a spot in the co-main event.

“I’m very excited that I have reached this level,” said Santisima.

Santisima, who still isn’t world-rated, is 13-2 with 11 knockouts, while Mrema is 16-0 with eight knockouts.

After a devastating eightround knockout loss to Mexican slugger Cesar Juarez, the 23-yearold Pagara contemplated on quitting. But after a little push, he now wants to bring back his former glory.

“I want a rematch with (Cesar) Juarez. I can fight him anywhere. I got caught with a lucky punch,” said Pagara.

“My family has been a huge inspiration to me. I was thinking of retiring but my father pushed me not to retire because I’m still young.”

Pagara will keep himself busy first against Thai veteran Aekakawee Kaewmanee.

“I have already recovered,” said Pagara. “I have been training really hard and I’m very serious in training. I’m putting in work on what I lacked in the past. I want to redeem myself.”

Pagara is 27-1 with 18 knockouts, while Kaewmanee is 16-9 with six knockouts.

The show’s main event features unbeaten hard-hitter Mark Magsayo defending his World Boxing Organization (WBO) International featherweight crown against Daniel Diaz. /