Taduran kicks off Las Vegas buildup


International Boxing Federation (IBF) minimumweight titlist Pedro Taduran formally kicked off training camp by doing roadwork under almost freezing conditions in Las Vegas.
While his proposed unification showdown with Puerto Rican Oscar Collazo is still ongoing, Taduran remains focused.
Just a few days after arriving in America from Manila, Taduran finally got to work out, assisted by former fighter Jhack Tepora.
He is staying at Sean Gibbons’ training facility, cooks his own food and does his own laundry.
His lead trainer Carl Penalosa will leave for the US as soon as a fight with Collazo, the World Boxing Organization and World Boxing Association titleholder, becomes official.
The undefeated Collazo is targeting to showcase his wares before his hometown fans in March.
Taduran is coming off a clear-cut decision win over compatriot Christain Balunan last October at the height of the Thrilla in Manila golden anniversary festivities.
Like Taduran, Collazo, also a southpaw, is also in training mode and has actually been showing up in training gear since December.
Also appearing to be in the hunt for action is Melvin Jerusalem, the only other Filipino world champion.
Jerusalem, holder of the World Boxing Council crown, has been spotted and even seen on social media working out regularly the past week or so, indications that negotiations are under way.
Last year, after a rousing campaign, Collazo made it clear that his mission in 2026 is to become undisputed world champion.
To do that, he has to go through Taduran and Jerusalem.