Philippine team coaches Roel Velasco and Pat Gaspi are rallying behind former national squad standout Charly Suarez’s bold bid to upset Emanuel Navarrete of Mexico on 10 May in San Diego, California.

Velasco, bronze medalist in the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, even predicts that the Filipino will prevail.

“I think Charly’s going to win. He will pull it off based on patience, endurance and timing, (traits) that will result to his foe’s downfall.”

Gaspi, who also won honors during his decorated amateur career, feels he knows Suarez long enough to risk his reputation.

“If we base it on standing and record, Navarrete has the big advantage,” Gaspi said.

“But I know Charly and I know what he can do on top of the ring. Charly’s much better in almost all departments — technical and tactical, speed, power and durability.”

Gaspi said what makes Navarrete the favored guy are two things: record and experience.

“I don’t feel any pressure at all. Instead, I am excited. Excited to fight for the world championship,” said the 36-year-old 2014 Incheon Asian Games silver medalist and three-time Southeast Asian Games champion.