By Michele Emrick
After losing in the ring last July by knockout, Hector Camacho Jr. has been determined to get his career turned around, and make his way back up the ranks of the very competitive division he is in.
Despite the unfortunate death of his father, the legendary Hector Camacho, the son is focusing his efforts on making a strong return to competition in 2013. So far, so good, as he has won consecutive fights by knockout.
He will make his next trip into the ring on August 8, in Rochester, New York. He believes that if he emerges victorious in that fight, that he will be in line for a world title shot.
“I am ready for this fight August 8; it is not only about the fight, but also about making weight,” said Camacho Jr. “I want to prove to the boxing world and myself that I am ready for it and show them how badly I want it. Every time I fight is one step closer to a title fight. All eyes are on me because of my father, and I want to win the fight by looking good and making weight.”
One major criticism of Hector Camacho Jr. throughout his career, is that he didn’t always give it his all. That is a criticism he has acknowledged. Now, however, he believes that the time has come to capitalize on the gifts and talents he has. He believes that the passing of his father has served as a wakeup call and capturing a title will help do his family name proud.
“In training for this upcoming bout August 8, I have focused so much on the mental side of it,” said Camacho Jr. “I have blocked everything out. I have trained harder than I ever have in my career, and anytime I feel myself getting tired, I talk to myself in the gym and when I’m working out, motivating myself and keeping myself going. I have to take everything step by step, not rushing, but keep on working and working. I have been falling in love with the gym again. And I have gotten back to loving the sport of boxing. I am truly blessed to do what I love doing, and this time I want to make sure I enjoy every step of it.
Camacho is not only making renewed efforts to better himself inside the ring, but outside of it as well. He has worked hard to spread awareness of his Guns Down, Gloves Up foundation, which has a goal of teaching kids to work towards positive goals in life and to avoid the lure of gangs.
“I have been surrounding with good people and former champions who have been where I am and where I want to be,” said Camacho Jr. “My training is not what it used to be. I am getting advice and pointers from past champions, and being within this atmosphere is huge for my training. I’m with people who have the same goals as I do.”
