Buglioni avoiding complacency in stand-in Castaneda clash

Frank Buglioni’s hopes of lifting a world title were put on hold when reigning super-middleweight champion Fedor Chudinov pulled out of their scheduled bout due to a broken nose, with the Londoner now facing stand-in Fernando Castaneda.

The 26-year-old’s shot at the title has been out off until Autumn as his Russian opponent continues a comeback from the sustained injury, but the immediate target is Mexican Castaneda, who has lost three of his last five contests.

Despite such a seemingly underwhelming stand-in counterpart, Buglioni, who has only ever been overcome once in his professional career, isn’t taking anything for granted and wants a strong showing (odds-on 1/33 to win).

“This is a crucial fight for me and I know that I have to perform in style and win,” Buglioni stated.

“Whilst it’s disappointing that it’s not Chudinov in front of me, Castaneda is a game, strong, fighter and I believe he’s also done plenty of sparring with Saul Alavarez, so he’ll know his way around the ring.

“Of course being a Mexican he’s going to be a tough opponent and will take some wearing down, but I’ve trained hard for Chudinov and I’ve got to take out all my built up frustration on someone so Castaneda is going to get it.

“He’s the final hurdle I have to overcome until I get to Chudinov later this year. I’m looking to put on a professional performance and come through victorious and then focus on Chudinov.”

‘The Wise Guy’, born in Enfield and, as his surname suggests, has Italian heritage tracing back to Naples, will want to avoid any upsets, with his stand-in foe Castaneda 10/1 to triumph and stun the hopeful world champion.

Buglioni’s fellow British super-middleweight Jamie Cox will take on Blas Miguel Martinez on the undercard and is hoping that potentially claiming the WBO belt will open the opportunity of a world title shot (odds-on 1/20 to triumph).

“I’m at a stage now where I’ll fight anyone at middle or super-middle,” Cox declared.

“Pain only lasts for a day or so. I want to challenge myself to see how good I am. I’d love the winner of Chudinov- Buglioni and an impressive performance on the undercard would make me a very viable voluntary challenger.

“Sometimes, when I turn the boxing on, it’s boring whereas I’d like to think I’ve always proven myself pretty exciting.”

The Swindon southpaw gets a crack at adding the European strap to his Commonwealth light-middle belt, which he collected back in 2011, when he confronts Swiss fighter Martinez at Wembley (9/1 to win).

Both Buglioni and Cox will be hoping to enjoy a successful night, which could see the super-middleweight division become even more enthralling, as this British duo target personal glory on home soil.