At 41 years of age, Pablo Valdez is proving that age is just a number.
Valdez is set to face Eudy Bernardo in an eight-round welterweight bout on November 9 at the Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida.
Valdez, 7-0 (6 KOs), is eager to show he still has plenty left as he continues training alongside super middleweight contender Edgar Berlanga. Reflecting on his return to the sport, Valdez expressed gratitude for the opportunities that have come his way.
“When I first came home, I said I wanted to go 2-0, and I dreamed of fighting in Madison Square Garden,” Valdez told ProBox TV. “I’ve fought there three times, Edgar got me in. Now, there are even bigger opportunities coming my way, but I’m taking it one fight at a time.”
Berlanga, a longtime supporter and teammate, praised Valdez’s mindset and determination. “He wants to inspire people who think they can’t do things because of their age,” Berlanga told ProBox TV. “It’s not about how old you are – it’s about the power of your mind and how far you can push yourself.”
Valdez’s opponent, Eudy Bernardo, 25-7 (18 KOs), is a battle-tested 37-year-old from the Dominican Republic, having faced the likes of Mario Barrios. Despite Bernardo’s experience, Valdez remains confident. “I like to fight, and I like to come forward, but now, I’m working on being smart – using angles,” Valdez said.
For Valdez, this fight is another chance to prove that age is not a barrier, but a badge of honor. “When I came home at 33, a lot of people told me not to fight,” Valdez said. “Now, at 41, I’m sparring with these young guys. My statement is simple – I want to prove that I still got it.”
Looking ahead, Valdez hinted at something big on the horizon. “I got a big opportunity that I really can’t speak about,” Valdez said. “But if that comes, I’m going to take it.”
Whether through his knockout power or tenacity, Valdez’s story is one of perseverance and empowerment. As Berlanga summed it up, “He’s fought on the biggest platforms, and he’s done it at 39, 40, and 41. He’s a legend, and he doesn’t even know it, but he is a legend already.”
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