Peña on Discipline, Identity, and the Road to the Top of the World

Angelo, about a year ago you gave up your job as a barista to focus entirely on boxing. How much has that changed your life?
It was a decision for boxing – and it has improved many things. Financially, it’s challenging, but from a sporting perspective, it was absolutely the right step.

You train in the USA, most recently in Las Vegas. Why did you choose this base?
The main reason is the Salas Boxing Academy. Las Vegas is the mecca of boxing – the best train there. I wanted to measure myself against them and develop further in this environment.

How important is the support of your fiancée Alissha?
She’s essential. I’m disciplined, but even I have difficult days. In those moments, Alissha motivates me and reminds me of my dream. Without her, this path would hardly be possible.

Your coaching team with Ismael Salas has trained numerous world champions. What makes the gym special?
At the academy, there are four full-time coaches, each with their own focus. One works on defense, another on athletic training. Ismael Salas oversees everything and is a perfectionist.

What’s the atmosphere like in the gym?
Intense and inspiring. All the boxers are professionals, many of them Dominicans. Four world champions train there. Everyone is hungry, and everyone helps each other – Robeisy Ramirez gives me tips for footwork, Alberto Puello shares his experience.

How did your preparation for the next title defense go?
In the previous camp, the focus was on defense – learning to stay patient and counter. This time, we could specifically prepare for the opponent because he was confirmed early.

On April 18th, you’ll box again at the Bern Stadttheater. How does it feel compared to Las Vegas?
Las Vegas is my base, Bern is my home. I always look forward to the Bernese crowd. The Stadttheater is smaller, but the atmosphere is unique.

In Switzerland, you are seen as a major boxing prospect. Do you feel pressure?
No. I don’t want to be a second Fritz or Alain Chervet. I am Angelo – I stay true to myself.

You have roots in the Dominican Republic but live in Switzerland. How do you experience this dual identity?
I don’t see it as either/or. I’m proud to represent both countries. I’m 100% Dominican, but Switzerland has given me many opportunities. Both are part of me.

You’re currently ranked 12th in the WBO world rankings. What does that mean to you?
It shows that I’m on the right path. Of course, I want to climb higher, but everything takes time.

How did you achieve this ranking?
Through victories in the ring – and thanks to management that believes in me. It’s a team effort.

Why do North Americans and Asians dominate the Super Featherweight division?
Those are the big boxing countries with the leading promotions. In Europe, fights are often for EBU or IBO titles, which have less influence on world rankings.

Your last opponents came from Japan and South Korea. Do you see a typical Asian style?
Yes, they are technically very clean, balanced, and make hardly any mistakes. That makes them difficult to box.

You’ve had eleven professional fights. When is a world title fight realistic?
Between 18 and 20 fights. Maybe sooner if the opportunity arises for an eliminator against a top-5 fighter.

The current world champion is Emanuel Navarrete. Is he your desired opponent?
Of course – he has the title I want. But the name doesn’t matter. I want to fight anyone who holds a belt from a major organization.