Julaton eyes success under Roach’s wings

Now under the wings of renowned boxing trainer Freddie Roach, Filipino-American Ana "The Hurricane" Julaton hopes to find success when she goes up against Mexican Maria Elena Villalobos for the vacant World Boxing Association (WBA) female super bantamweight title on June 30 in Canada.

Julaton is coming off a stinging loss against Canadian Lisa Brown in their own WBA title fight in Ontario two months ago, disappointing many Filipino fans who had hope she'll be the next female version of Manny Pacquiao.

Roach, who helped Pacquiao win a record seven titles in seven divisions, replaced Nonito Donaire Sr., father of reigning IBF and IBO Flyweight champion Donaire Jr.

Angelo Reyes, Julaton's manager, said in an e-mail interview that they believe Roach's presence in their camp will be crucial in Julaton's coming fight.

"We hope his (Roach) addition to our team will bring the best out of Ana," said Reyes of Roach.

It was actually a reunion of sorts for Julaton and Roach, who coached the 29-year-old Julaton in her first six fights.

Roach is a four-time Trainer of the Year winner — 2003, 2006, 2008, and 2009 — by the Boxing Writers Association of America.

The reigning IBA and WBO Super Bantamweight titlist, Julaton (6-2-1 win-loss-draw record) will face Villalobos, (6-3-0, 3 KOs), who is also coming off a 10-round setback.