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01/03/2009 Archived Entry: "Exciting Prospect: Adrian Granados Interview"
Exciting Prospect: Adrian Granados Interview
By Chris Martinez
of Rick Ramos Boxing
Adrian Granados (center) is tended to be acclaimed trainer, Ignacio "Nacho" Beristain (at left)
CHICAGO -- Exciting prospect Adrian Granados plans to keep busy in 2009. Being a prize fighter is tough for anyone, but 19 year-old Adrian Granados of Cicero,Illinois seems to have put together the "RIGHT TEAM" for 2009.
Congrats, Adrian on your win of a GAME and READY Jesse Francisco!! Looks like Jesse Francisco may have caught you in the first round... were you hurt at all?
AG: I would not say hurt, more surprised than anything. He came to fight, he caught me with a good shot with my guard down and almost dropped me. Luckily I was able to quickly rebound and come out victorious.
Do you think you maybe have under estimated Francisco or do you think you may have been a little over excited?
AG: I never under estimate any opponent, that's something my father always taught me. Being over excited may be the perfect way to explain it. I was pretty anxious, it was exciting to fight in front of my hometown, but I learned never to lose focus of the task at hand.
What was it like to fight for your first time in Chicago??
AG: I had been looking forward to fighting in Chicago professionally all my life. The support I got from the people was very flattering, I've never had a crowd support me like that.
I know you have been working with the great Ignacio "Nacho" Beristain (trainer of Oscar De La Hoya and Hall of fame trainer) what is that like?
AG: It's an honor, I've been a huge fan of Nacho for years. I've watched him make some of my favorite Mexican fighters of all time. He has had around 16 World Champions to this date and has help create some of the best ring technicians in the sport. I never dreamed that I'd be in the position I am training with "Don Nacho." He is a very wise man and being around him and the atmosphere in the gym is overwhelming. When at the Romanza Boxing Gym I turn into a sponge and try to soak up as much knowledge as possible. I know with the knowledge of this man, he will help me achieve my dream of becoming a World Champion someday.
For this fight and win over Jesse Francisco you went back to your good friend and amateur trainer Rico Gonzalez was this a complete home coming?
AG:Definitely a complete homecoming. Rico Gonzalez has always been there for me, he is responsible for making me realize that I could make a career out of boxing. He's like my big brother, It was a "no brainer" on who would work my corner once I knew Nacho would not be able to make the fight.
Are you planning on going back to Mexico with Nacho, if so.. .when?
AG:Yes I will be returning to Mexico City on the 7Th of January. Nacho tells me we have a lot of work to do this upcoming year.
Rick Ramos (co-owner of Chicago Boxing Club) has been seen in your camp... what role does he play, if any?
AG:I met Rick a few years back while fighting as an amateur. We both share the same love for boxing. We have stayed in touch over the years and have become great friends. Rick has helped me out a lot with sponsorships, exposure, and also helped put together my fight in Chicago. Rick is someone I can always turn to for help and is a great asset to the team.
Do you want to say anything to your fans ???
AG:Thank You to all the people who have supported me over the years. I'm just getting my feet wet, only bigger and better things to come. I promise I'll put in the work to make that happen.
Any special thanks??
AG:Of course, to God, my family, my friends, Rick Ramos, Nacho Beristain, Rico Gonzalez, Robinson and Jorge Hernandez.
