Boxing: Vic’s fancy belt is a hit

Vic’s fancy belt is a hit
Northern District Times (Australia)
December 22, 2004 Wednesday
IN A humble red brick unit at Ryde sits a world title belt belonging
to newly-declared world champion boxer Vic Darchinyan.
The flyweight snared the elusive title at the International Boxing
Federation bout at Hollywood, Florida, on Friday.
The southpaw gave an account of how he triumphed over Colombian Irene
Paceco, making it 23 wins from 23 fights.
“I felt very aggressive and knocked him down after 20 seconds in
round 11,” the 28-year-old said.
“I believed from the start that I could become the world champion
because I believed in myself.
“I’m strong and no one’s stronger than me,” Darchinyan said.
The Armenian immigrant settled in Sydney after the 2000 Olympics and
started training with Australian champion boxer Jeff Fenech.
Fenech said Darchinyan had improved “tremendously” since joining his
Marrickville-based camp.
“He wasn’t used to training hard,” Fenech said.
“He never really ran. Now he’s got a combination of everything. It’s
been great. He’s got that strength.”
Darchinyan is already eyeing the World Boxing Federation title
next year.
“I want a whole belt now,” he said.
Fenech has complete faith in the gutsy fighter, but won’t let him to
become complacent.
“He’ll dominate his division for a long time,” Fenech said.
“He’s strong and very determined.
“Everyone wants to take it off him, so he’s got to stay focused.”
Meanwhile, Darchinyan is preparing to enjoy a three-week break with
his parents, who are visiting from his homeland.
But for now, his heart is in Australia.
“I love Australia . . . it’s a beautiful country,” he said.
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress