BY MR. JOSE NUNEZ, MANAGER OF WORLD CHAMPION JOAN GUZMAN

"Unfortunately, there is rumor and innuendo going around in some boxing circles that my fighter, undefeated Joan Guzman, pulled out of his May 26 HBO title challenge against WBO lightweight champion Michael Kastidis for non-medical reasons. Nothing could be further from the truth.

"Guzman deeply regrets having to pull out due to a hand injury. In fact, Guzman did not want to pull out. I made that decision as his manager based on the medical advice from Dr. Steven Sanders who is an expert in treating the hands of professional boxers. No one fight is worth destroying the remaining career of an incredibly talented fighter.

“I want to reassure out two fine co-promoters, Sycuan Ringside Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions, that this decision was made based solely on the health and safety issues involved.We also want Michael Kastidis, a great champion in his own right, and his handlers to know this. Guzman has very proudly worn two WBO title belts in two weight divisions and he was hoping to add a third belt at 135 pounds.

“I worked very hard to put this fight between two great champions together as did Sycuan and Golden Boy. I call upon our promoters and HBO to reschedule this match so these two fighters can match their skills. Joan Guzman wants only one person as his next opponent and that is Michael Kastidis.”