JON Fernandez has no problem going for the European title. In addition, he draws inspiration from the actions of the heavy-handed Spanish legend who has enjoyed great success on UK and Irish shores over the years.
After Matchroom Boxing succeeded in putting together a vacant European title fight between Jon and Dalton Smith, a September date is likely to be announced soon. Fernandez will come as a dangerous puncher, just like 'La Sensacion' Kiko Martinez.
“I have no problem going to Sheffield or going to war abroad. We have had an experience with Kiko Martinez, who is on the same team as all of us. They had a great victory [Kid] Galahad, so it's not a problem,” said Fernandez Debate News.
Continuing to climb the ranks, in Dalton Smith's last fight, he looked impressive, knocking out Jose Zepeda. Although the former world class campaign is still a threat, Zepeda may not carry the same threat of previous years.
“Dalton is a great fighter, he is a great player and he did very well against Zepeda. I think Zepeda was a little bit more,” explained Fernandez.
“He won very well in the past, but it will be a good test for me to fight Dalton in his backyard. It will be a good and interesting test for Dalton to fight me, see where he is intellectually.”
Dalton Smith lands a right from Jose Zepeda in their super-lightweight bout at Utilita Area Sheffield on March 23, 2024 in Sheffield, England (George Wood/Getty Images)
Fernandez was last seen defeating former WBA world champion Jezreel Corrales in 10 rounds. Describing the Panamanian as a smooth customer and an experienced, sophisticated operator, Dalton Smith won't be hard to find in the ring.
With 22 knocks on Jon's slide, that opens up some fan-friendly firepower. Smith has briefly mentioned that Jon is a known puncher.
In fact, it's the first thing that stands out to most observers. As happy as Fernandez is with that last stat as far as opponents are concerned, he has other qualities to call for.
“Yes, my slaying power has been proven. Batting power isn't the only thing he has to worry about because I'm also a top-level pro and I'll still prepare smartly to fight Dalton at night.
“I have 100 percent trust in my team and I do what my team says, instructions and tactics to go to war. But I think it is very good for the boxer to watch the boxer he will face, to see skillfully, because I will be the one in the ring and see how I will handle that test,” it was added.
Coming in as an undefeated prospect, many will consider Smith a strong fight favorite. However, Fernandez sees this as an opportunity to claim a scalp that will get him back on the world stage and take control of his career.
“Yes, Dalton is an undefeated prospect. He is highly ranked in all organizations, especially the WBC. Personally, winning this fight for the European title will put me in a very good position with the WBC and in the respect of the world.”
Worldwide recognition and the chance to follow in the footsteps of Kiko Martinez, the diminutive puncher from Valencia who knocked Bernard Dunne out of the EBU crown back in 2007 in front of a stunned home crowd.
Dubliner Dunne was undefeated and highly praised by the Irish national press. On that warm August night, 17 years ago, Kiko tore open the script and took great delight in flinging every last bit of it across the haunted grounds of Point Depot.
Repeating that same trick years later against Kid Galahad, entering the enemy's territory for a smash-grab knockout attack, Dalton's Sheffield faithful were warned.
“Kiko inspires, not only for Spanish boxers but for boxing all over the world. With his determination, he has been going to the back of the field as a boxer facing difficulties, like in Galahad,” praised Jon Fernandez.
“He left like a loser wanting to be beaten, then he turned around. He is an inspiration to all boxers and athletes in general.”
While Kiko is very upset, Fernandez knows very well that the onus is solely on his shoulders to prepare, step up, and perform.
“It's a very important fight for both of our jobs. I'm so happy, as I'm sure Dalton is too. It has always been my dream to fight in the UK when I turn up at the top level and on a big stage like this, fighting for the European title. It will be a tough fight, but hopefully the best man will win.”
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