8CN Interview with Francisco Figueroa

February 23rd, 2010

With all of the controversial figures in boxing, it is hard to find a shining light in the pugilistic sport. But then there is Francisco “Gato” Figueroa. Figueroa, who is currently ranked in the top 10 at light welterweight in the IBF, could have followed the path of drugs and violence that many teens seep into while growing up in the Bronx. But he didn’t. Instead the former U.S. Army veteran has decided to make the most with his life and has been instrumental in the lives of many. The motto of Team Gato is simple: Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop. Yet those four words define the movement behind Team Gato and has been motivation to all of his followers. Figueroa’s rise to the top has been a rocky road, but he is knocking on the doorsteps of the division’s elite and he won’t stop until he gets there. Over the weekend, “Gato” Figueroa spoke to 8CN.

8cn: How are you doing Gato?

Figueroa: I am doing very good man. I am just here [Tampa] sparring with Juan Urango and now sparring Hector Camacho.

8CN: How is Urango’s camp coming along?

Figueroa: His camp is going great. I am giving him a lot of movements and a lot of angles. I am throwing a lot of combinations at him. He is doing very well and is in great shape. It is going to be a great fight for him against Devon Alexander on HBO.

8CN: The last time we saw you fight, you were at 147. Do you plan on staying there or going back down to 140?

Figueroa: No, I am going back down to 140. I got a last minute call and they asked me if I could fight at 140, but with only a month I couldn’t fight at 140, so I took the fight at 147 against Holloway. I thought I won the fight but the judges ruled it a draw.

8CN: Do you have any fights coming up?

Figueroa: No I don’t, but I want to fight anyone in the top 5 and get to the number one spot in the IBF and get my shot. Everyone knows I deserve it. I have been through a lot of pain and agony and a lot of pleasure. In 2010, I believe it is the year for Team Gato to become a world champion.

8CN: Any final comments for all your fans out there?

Figueroa: Team Gato baby. Can’t stop, won’t stop. Not just a saying, but a movement.

For additional info on Francisco Figueroa visit youtube.com/teamgato and also follow him on twitter.com/GatoTime2010