rewrite this content and keep HTML tags
Abel Mendoza, the lightweight chasing Floyd Mayweather’s 50-0 record, revealed he still has nightmares over his Colombian kidnapping.
The 29-year-old is just eight fights from Mayweather and told Worldboxingnews.com he could overtake the boxing legend by 2028. Mendoza [42-0, 31 KOs] recalls his horrific ordeal daily.
Discussing his ongoing plight, Mendoza—who also informed WBN that he’s the backup to Ryan Garcia vs. Rolly Romero on May 2—made an emotional statement.
He said, “I can’t believe I’m typing a post like this, but it’s been four months since I was kidnapped.
“This was almost the last picture of me taken. Not gonna lie, I went through very difficult moments, having realistic, vivid nightmares and certain moments that reminded me of what happened.
“Overall, I can say that I’ve definitely grown a lot and learned to appreciate life a lot more. Yes, I do believe in GOD! But there’s also a devil out there, and he will do everything in his power to take over your life.
“But having GOD on your side will give you the strength to overcome whatever obstacles life gives us,” added Mendoza.
At the time of his terrifying kidnapping, Mendoza explained to his followers what transpired.
“It’s hard to write this, but I want to thank God so much not for this victory but for giving me the strength of being able to escape after being kidnapped and robbed in Colombia.
“My money, jewelry, and phone were taken, but my life wasn’t. I never thought I was gonna see my family and friends again. I have so many emotions going through me. I’m mad and sad but also grateful to be alive.
“Love your loved ones because you never know your last day on this Earth.”
On the Garcia vs Romero situation, Mendoza told World Boxing News, “I want to announce that I will be on standby just in case Ryan Garcia or Rolly Romero gets hurt during their upcoming fight in New York City.
“A lot of fighters have been getting hurt, and you never know. But now I’m on standby, staying ready, waiting for my shot!”
‘El Zorro’ added, “I’d say that they’re both elite fighters. I hope they don’t take me lightly when they fight me because I will be ready.”
Mendoza has a long way to go and would need to go through more weight classes to make significant boxing history. Despite his boxing record, he’d also need to win world titles to be considered anywhere near Mayweather.
A title fight is on the horizon, provided he remains undefeated. Becoming world champion could see Mendoza break the WBN Pound for Pound Top 50 for the first time.
Sign up for the WBN Newsletter for free and get daily news directly in your email. Never miss a story.
Read all articles and exclusive interviews by Phil Jay. Learn more about the author, an experienced boxing writer and World Boxing News Editor since 2010.
