A fresh presence will grace the corner of Sultan Zaurbek this evening.
Zaurbek, the undefeated Kazakh super-featherweight, is making a comeback in Bolton. He will face his Argentinian opponent, Roman Ruben Reynoso, in a live match on Channel 5. Zaurbek used to train with Scottish coach Billy Nelson, but he has now joined forces with Manny Robles in the United States.
Zaurbek, with a record of 17-0 (12 KOs), has shown immense talent and has consistently outperformed his opponents leading up to his 20th fight. His professional career started on October 26, 2018, at York Hall where he faced Jose Aguilar. Although Zaurbek is currently ranked fifth with the WBA, Robles remains cautious about his expectations for the 28-year-old. Despite his high ranking, Zaurbek has not yet encountered a formidable opponent, raising questions about when he will face someone within the top 15 at the 130lbs weight division.
“I mean, he’s almost there,” Robles tells Boxing News.
The purpose of his journey to America was to advance to a higher level. In this country, there is an abundance of sparring opportunities. We encounter fighters from diverse backgrounds, hailing from various parts of the world, with distinct styles and appearances. This exposure is bound to enhance his skills and make him a more formidable fighter.
As coaches, it is evident that we strive to challenge our athlete in the gym. We deliberately create uncomfortable situations for him during sparring sessions. I have personally encountered instances where he was sparring, and today I informed him that we will be doing 10 rounds, not asking for his opinion. Whether it’s eight rounds or 10 rounds, we are determined to push him to his limits.
“Today, you will be accompanying so-and-so. You will engage in ten rounds of sparring with three distinct partners. This is the necessary journey you must undertake. It is crucial to acknowledge that future fights will not be any less challenging. Our objective is to progress to the next level, requiring him to perform as an advanced fighter.”
Zaurbek has maintained a flawless record in 17 starts, as depicted in the photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images.
During their time together in 2024, Robles characterizes Zaurbek as “humble” and “disciplined,” highlighting his strong work ethic. Maintaining this crucial trait is essential for Robles to bring out the best in his new fighter.
Throughout his career, the Mexican trainer has witnessed numerous fighters pass through his tutelage. With a rich roster including Reggie Johnson, Oscar Valdez, Vergil Ortiz Jr., Michael Conlan, Andy Ruiz, and other notable names, he possesses a discerning eye. In a remarkable turn of events in June 2019, he guided Ruiz to a historic upset victory over Anthony Joshua at Madison Square Garden, propelling him to the esteemed title of unified world champion in the heavyweight division.
Currently, in Zaurbek’s weight class, four esteemed world champions dominate the scene: Emanuel Navarrete, Anthony Cacace, O’Shaquie Foster, and Lamont Roach. Additionally, Oscar Valdez is on the verge of securing another shot at the world title, while ex-featherweight champions Leigh Wood and Raymond Ford have made their way up to join the thrilling competition.
Robles states that world champions have earned their title for a valid purpose.
In each weight class, there are world champions and top contenders. As one progresses in the rankings, fights become increasingly challenging. This holds true for Sultan as well. I believe he has chosen to train with us in the US because he recognizes that the fights will not become any easier.
“They will become more challenging, and that’s the mindset I want to instill in his mind. Sultan must understand that things will not become easier; they will become tougher. As the saying goes, victory is achieved through hard work in the gym. That’s precisely what we aim to teach him: to evolve into a superior fighter. Not only physically tougher and more resilient, but also to acquire new techniques and skills. To excel in fighting from close quarters, for instance, targeting the body and wearing down opponents. Unleashing his inner strength and maintaining aggression, while also having control over it. I want him to retain his natural abilities and remain a skilled fighter.”
I wish for him to continue using that, but I simply desire for him to exhibit greater determination.
