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Anthony Olascuaga, who is currently ranked No. 3 at flyweight by The Ring, is still gaining steam through the tutelage of experienced trainer Rudy Hernandez. His performances and his level of activity have been impressive, thus cementing his position as a consistent competitor in the division.

Hernandez has closely monitored Olascuaga’s development and believes the 27-year-old is steadily improving with each outing. He pointed out that the fighter has also matured by critically examining his own performances. He examines himself to see where to improve. It is a characteristic that can most often distinguish elite fighters.

Anthony Olascuaga’s Rapid Rise To World Champion

In July 2024, Olascuaga won the WBO flyweight title, knocking out Riku Kano in the third round. It was only his second scheduled 12-round match, a testament to his talent and his speed in getting to the top.

He has kept up with the same pace since his title and is presently one of the busiest world champions in boxing. His latest appearance saw him secure a third successful title defense within six months, further strengthening his reputation. That fight was on a card where Riku Masuda stopped Nonito Donaire, a veteran boxer.

Old-School Mentality Making Fortune

Hernandez has also stressed being active in keeping sharp, where he mentions that regular fights keep fighters at the top. He opposed this style in the present era of boxing. He indicated that protracted layoffs can slow down the rhythm and performance.

He also used the example of former two-time world champion Gilberto Roman as a traditional hard-working fighter who fought regularly, often within weeks of a title fight. Hernandez believes that this mindset will benefit Anthony Olascuaga as he continues to rise through the ranks.

The trainer has indicated clearly that he would love another fight as early as possible. Even within a month, which highlights his determination to ensure his fighter remains active.

Anthony Olascuaga is now relieved of immediate commitments after a compulsory title defense against Juan Carlos Camacho on Sept. 11. With that flexibility, Hernandez has stated a simple strategy against matchmaking, meaning that the team is willing to take on whoever their promoter offers them.

This readiness to accept any challenge also emphasizes confidence. The desire of Olascuaga to demonstrate himself at the highest level of competition.

Attention Switches To Nakatani vs Inoue Bout

Hernandez is also focusing on another primary combatant in his camp, Junto Nakatani. Nakatani is also training for a high-profile confrontation with Naoya Inoue on May 2, which is generally considered one of the largest boxing fights.

Nakatani had been training in Los Angeles with Anthony Olascuaga, but had gone back to Japan to resume preparations. The team will stay in camp until mid-April; after that, they will go back home to make adjustments before the fight.

Hernandez admitted that he was facing a daunting task, saying that Inoue is among the finest competitors in the world. Nonetheless, he is hopeful of Nakatani winning, and he stresses that the team will be ready to win by decision or by knockout.

As Anthony Olascuaga steadily ascends and Nakatani is poised to fight a superfight, the camp of Hernandez is now in a time of opportunity. Discipline, activity, and ambition have remained the ingredients of their style. Both fighters are pitched in moments of greatness in their respective careers.

This article first appeared on Total Apex Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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