Shortly before his fighter Oscar Diaz fought an ESPN2-televised showdown against rugged Jesse Feliciano, legendary manager/trainer Lou Duva said the fight would be a "does he or doesn't he have what it takes" type crossroads fight for the 22-year-old.

So now that Diaz has won a thrilling ten-round decision that delighted fans and stole the show, what is Duva's prognosis for the young slugger? "Oscar is definitely onto something. My opinion is that I'm happy with the way it turned out. He showed tremendous heart and he's definitely the kind of fighter that fans will always want to see. I have a feeling he will be involved in several fights like the other night, those two tore the house apart. The really put on a show, and that makes him one of the most marketable young fighters in boxing. We'll be looking to put him in a title fight against any available champion as soon as possible."

Duva, who serves a surrogate father role to the fighter, says part of him worries about Diaz' natural tendency to turn easy fights more difficult, but realizes it is just "El Torito's" nature. "I got a lot of calls from people saying that was a hell of a fight. It's tough for Oscar," he explained, "because when he fought like more of a boxer against Ebo Elder (his only loss), I had just as many people calling me and saying 'what the hell was that?' That's why I picked this kind of opponent for Oscar, because I knew he'd have to fight with him. I'd rather Oscar fight fighters that he has to show what he's really made of to beat."

Promoter Dino Duva of Duva Boxing says he's equally impressed with the grit and determination Diaz has consistently shown against a very respectable level of opposition. "Oscar won another fan-pleasing war against fellow Latin warrior Jesse Feliciano the other night. Clearly he's re-confirmed his reputation as one of the most exciting fighters in the world. And I think just as clearly, he has earned the chance at a world title fight."

Manager Duva says it's the desire Diaz shown that impresses him most. "He told me after the fight he wanted to impress the crowd so much that he was trying to knock the guy out from the fifth round on, rather than fight a safer fight. Tommy (trainer Brooks) and I had to laugh. He was so disappointed he didn't get the knockout, all he kept saying was 'I want a rematch. I want a rematch.' Can you imagine? He beats the guy and he wants a rematch?"

So it's a passing grade for Diaz from his Hall-of-Fame manager. He has what it takes.

"Oscar is a good kid, not only in the ring, but outside. He's dedicated, a kid you want around you all the time. He'll do well in boxing. He works so hard to improve and he always brings incredible amounts of excitement. I like what I see for his future."

5-6-2005

 

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