U.S. officials tapped for Suarez title shot

The roster of referee and three judges working Charly Suarez’s world title shot this Saturday (Sunday in Manila) in San Diego, California, has been released by Top Rank.

Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum told DAILY TRIBUNE that the third man on the ring when Suarez challenges defending World Boxing Organization super-featherweight champion Emanuel Navarrete of Mexico is Ed Collantes.

The three judges are Pat Russell, Lou Moret and Fernando Villareal.

The officials are all from California.

The unbeaten Suarez, 36, is vying for the world title for the first time after deciding to turn professional after a solid amateur career.

Still, Navarrete is the betting favorite in the scheduled 12-rounder taking place at Pechanga Arena.

“I’m at a new stage of my career, and I’m fired up for another defense of my world title. This fight motivates me. Suarez is undefeated and dangerous. He’s ranked No. 1 in the world for a reason. He’s exactly the kind of challenge that fuels me. I owe the fans in San Diego a win, and on 10 May, I’ll settle that debt with a dominant victory,” Navarrete, holder of a 39-2-1 win-loss-draw record with 32 knockouts, said.

Suarez, parading an 18-0-0 mark with ten knockouts, believes he is right on course.

“I am thankful to Top Rank for this opportunity.  When I enter the ring on May 10, I will show the world I have what it takes. I won’t waste this opportunity. Navarrete is a monster in the ring, but I know I am better.”