Long regarded as one of boxing’s most underrated champions, WBA featherweight champion Chris John showed the world just what he can do on the sport’s biggest stage when he battled Rocky Juarez over 12 exciting rounds in his United States debut on HBO this past February. John, unbeaten at 42-0-2 with 22 KOs, thrilled fight fans with his exciting style, as well as his grace when the 12 round draw verdict was announced. Now preparing for his second stateside appearance against Juarez, which is expected to take place this June 27th in Los Angeles, John is about to receive the promotional push here that he has always deserved.
Oscar de la Hoya, President of Golden Boy Promotions, along with company CEO Richard Schaefer and John’s agent/advisor Sampson “Picasso” Lewkowicz, today met with Subijaksono Sujono, the Consul General of Indonesia in Los Angeles, to discuss their plans to take John from local hero to international superstar.
Among the topics touched on during meeting were the plan to promote John not just within the boxing world, but also within the large and vibrant Indonesian community of Los Angeles, as well as the overall goal of having John follow in the footsteps of fellow Asian star Manny Pacquiao in terms of crossover international cross-over appeal.
To help with these plans, John is anticipating a six week training camp in Los Angeles to prepare for his next bout. This will give the local media an opportunity to get to know the native of Indonesia better, allow John to get out into the Indonesian community in Los Angeles and to allow him to give new fans a chance to learn his story and about his home country.
“Chris John has always been one of boxing’s hidden gems, but now is the time to let him shine,” said De La Hoya. “His fight against Rocky Juarez was one of the best of the year so far, and his humble nature reminds me not only of Manny Pacquiao, but of fighters like Alexis Arguello, who are fierce combatants in the ring, but gentlemen outside of it. We’re excited to join up with the Indonesian Consul General here in Los Angeles to let the world know about this undefeated superstar.”