Martin Castillo: “I am the best in my weight class”
INTERVIEW By "Big Dog" Benny Henderson Jr. (March 13, 2006)  
Photo © HBO-PPV
Reigning WBA Super Flyweight champion Martin Castillo 30-1 (16) has lit up the division defeating all but one in his pathway since stepping in the pro ranks in 1998. Known for his uncanny mobility, speed and suburb boxing skill Castillo has banged out victories over the divisions best taking the top spot with vengeance.

With a long hit list of fallen foe that include Hideyasu Ishihara, Eric Morel and Alexander Munoz, the Mexican pugilist has paved his way to the top seeking for new blood to continue his destruction. What is next for the champ? See what Martin has to say to the Doghouse about his future and more, enjoy.

Benny Henderson Jr.: First thing Martin I would like to thank you for taking the time out to speak to the Doghouse, your time is greatly appreciated. I Just want to say congratulations on your successful title defense in January, what is next for you?

Martin Castillo:
Thank you Benny. Right now I have been resting and enjoying my time with the family. There are some talks of a possible match with WBO champ Fernando Montiel.

BH: What are your thoughts on your counterparts, for instance the WBC champ Masamori Tokuyama, give us your thoughts his abilities and your fight plan if you two were to meet?

MC:
To be honest, I haven’t seen him fight. From what I hear he is pretty good and just defeated Jose Navarro.

BH: Now how about the IBF titleholder Luis Perez, what are your thoughts on him as a fighter and a possible match-up between you to?

MC:
I have seen him fight once and he’s an exciting fighter. I think with our styles we would put on a great show. I would love to unify with him someday.

BH: You have had some pretty big wins throughout your career, looking back on your thirty-one bouts which are you most proud of?

MC:
The first fight with Hideyasu Ishihara. When I won the WBA interim belt. I was only given a little less than one-month notice and had to shed 21 lbs. I wasn’t at my best conditioning for that fight and was still able to knock out the tough Ishihara. That was a proud moment for me because I wanted it so bad.

BH: You went into Japan to fight Ishihara may of 2004, seven months ago you went back to Japan to defend your title against your former foe, to be honest did you fear of losing your title to a bad judgment call, I mean at times the whole hometown, or home country decision can come into play so you were taking a serious risk.

MC:
I wasn’t that worried. I knew my manager Frank Espinoza did his homework and made sure it would be a fair fight. I am a champion and feel I am the best, so going to another guys hometown wasn’t too bad or a concern.

BH: What inspired you to want to lace up the gloves?

MC:
In Mexico I loved watching boxing with my father. We both shared that love and passion for it. And it’s because of him why I laced the gloves up.

BH: Looking at your arsenal, what do you feel are your greater strengths in the ring?

MC:
I love the sweet science of the sport and being intelligent in the ring. Out thinking my opponent and breaking them down. Using my boxing skills. But must admit, I love to go toe to toe at times. (Laughs)

BH: How about out of the ring, what is it like in the day and life of Martin Castillo when he isn’t training for an upcoming bout?

MC:
I’m not much of a party animal, I love spending time with my family. I love being a father to my son. I also like hanging out with friends and just enjoying life.

BH: If there was any message you could get out to your division, what would it be?

MC:
I feel I am the best at this weight class and would love to unify with the other champions. There are many good potential match ups at this weight class that the fans would love to see. Hopefully we can get it done. And a good start for me would be a fight with Fernando Montiel.

BH: Is there anything you would like to add or say in closing of this interview?

MC:
I would like to thank all my fans for all their support! Also thank you Benny for this opportunity and thank you to Doghouseboxing.com

I would like to thank Frank Espinoza for helping out with the setting up and translating this interview, and a big thank you goes out to Castillo for his time, thanks!
© Copyright / All Rights reserved: Doghouse Boxing 1998-2006