Yamaguchi Falcao is ready to fight for a world title

Yamaguchi Falcao isn't sure why he hasn't received a world title shot yet, but the Brazilian claims he is more than ready.

"It has been my dream since I was a teenager [to fight and win a world title]," he stated through an interpreter. "I've been boxing for over 20 years. I just want my chance."

Yamaguchi (20-1-1, 9 KOs), who captured a bronze medal in the 2012 London Olympics, spent much of his career as a middleweight until he moved up to 168-pounds last August. The 34-year-old southpaw explained to FightNights.com why the weight change was necessary.

"I feel stronger [at 168-pounds]. I don't get heavy between fights. I fought at 178-pounds in the Olympics. I had to eat [more] to get closer to the weight.

"At the same time, I won't rule out going back down to 160 [for the right opportunity]."

But for now, Falcao, the older brother of unbeaten 160-pound contender Esquiva Falcao, remains focused on his next task when he takes on Damian Ezequiel Bonelli in a scheduled 10-round bout at Caribe Royale in Orlando.

"Training camp is wonderful. My trainer [Florida Boxing Hall of Famer], Jim McLaughlin, is very experienced and has a big heart," Falcao stated.

Falcao suffered his lone defeat to Christopher Pearson in May 2019. After fighting D'Mitrius Ballard to a 10-round draw seven months later, Falcao split with Golden Boy Promotions, which signed him after the 2012 Olympics. However, he harbors no ill-will towards his former promoter and is moving on to greener pastures with his new team.

"I'm here with my family. I have a good structure with my promoter, Fire Fist Boxing, and I train happily every day. I know what I want in my career, and if it's up to me and my team, we'll reach the top. I train hard for all [my] opponents. If they are in the ring, they are my goal, and I must beat them to get where so I want, so I do my job, and I am always preparing. The day my opportunity arrives, I will seize it."