Jose Hernandez: I'm Going To Destroy Fontanez

By Jake Donovan

You have to love the confidence of Jose ‘Loco Por Dios’ Hernandez. For a fighter with a paltry record of 15-9-1—and having lost three of his last four’—there’s no doubt in his mind that a win is around the corner, and that a title is in his future. 

The veteran boxer carried that level of swagger all the way from the plane ride in from Texas to the weigh-in ahead of his showdown with Jeffrey Fontanez in Indio, California (Thursday, Fox Sports 1, 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT). 

“I feel he’s an easy fight,” insists Hernandez, who is coming off of a knockout win over 14-1 Chris Singleton this past February. “Right now I feel this is my time to shine. 

I’m going to destroy Fontanez. 

This guy don't know what he's walking into.”

The show is topped by a catchweight bout between rebuilding lightweight contenders Mercito Gesta and Carlos Molina.

Adding to Hernandez’ confidence is Fontanez’ last fight. The rising prospect from Puerto Rico was bumped down a few notches following a shocking 5th round knockout loss to Gilberto Gonzalez last August in Mexico. 

Thursday’s bout marks the first bout back for Fontanez (15-1, 11KOs). There exists the theory that his handlers picked Hernandez based on his reputation as a tough out, but also vulnerable enough to come up short in big fights. 

All the visiting Texan sees is the opportunity to once again upset the odds.  

“It’s a tremendous opportunity, to be able to go out there and perform in top shape,” notes Hernandez. “Hopefully more fans will be attracted and then I can hook up with Golden Boy (the lead promoter for Thursday’s show and also business partners with Leija-Battah Promotions, Hernandez’ handlers).”

The deceptive record of Hernandez includes losses when he was thrown the wolves early in his career and also accepting several fights on short notice. Included along the way is an upset win over then-unbeaten Tony Luis and strong showings versus a then-unbeaten prospect in Mickey Bey—who has since claimed a lightweight belt—and last year’s eight-round war with undefeated Keandre Gibson, who prevailed by split decision.

Armed with a full training camp for this fight, the 28-year old Texan believes nothing can stand in his way on Thursday. 

“I’m ready to take care of business. I’m gonna go out there and pull off the upset again,” Hernandez promises. I’m going to show (Fontanez) who’s the true fighter.”