Photo: Vincent Ethier – Jhon Orobio (12-0, 11 KOs) celebrating his victory last November, achieved in less than one round, against the formerly undefeated Jacopo Colli (9-1-1, 4 KOs).
Jhon Orobio is aiming for the top—and sooner rather than later. The pride of Cali, Colombia, is widely regarded as one of the best prospects in the world.
Yet, as the saying goes, no one is a prophet in their own land. In his adopted city of Montreal, Orobio remains relatively under the radar. The language barrier is certainly a factor. But the 21-year-old athlete is working on it, as seen last November when he gave his first interview in French with analyst Matt Casavant (watch here).
Now that December is here, we’re back to learn more about El Tigre with 11 questions for the man with 11 KOs.
Part I: Boxing
(1) Of your 7 wins, which one made you the proudest?
My last fight was my best fight. The guy was undefeated, had both professional and amateur experience, and I really showed that I’m ready to fight anyone.
(2) What have you worked on the most in the gym?
My timing.
(3) The best advice Marc Ramsay has given you?
To be more patient and selective in my attacks.
(4) Test – The worst advice Marc has given you?
Marc is a great coach. So far, all his advice has been good.
(5) What would your dream fight be?
I’d love to face all the great boxers, but I’d really enjoy the challenge of fighting Vasyl Lomachenko. With his experience and skill, he’s a legend, and it would be the ultimate test for me.
(6) If you weren’t a boxer, you would be…
Sometimes it scares me to think about it, because I might be on the streets today. That’s why I thank God every day for making me a boxer. It was my path.
(7) Speaking of that, who inspired you to pursue this path?
Muhammad Ali!
Part II: Montreal
(8) After nearly 20 months in Montreal, do you have a favorite restaurant?
I really like Cuba Paisa (on Saint-Laurent).
(9) Other favorite things in Montreal?
In general, what’s better than downtown?
(10) Your favorite French expressions?
“Oulala” and “poule mouillée”!
(A quick reminder that Orobio lived for nearly a year with French prospect Moreno Fendero.)
Musical Bonus
(11) Since we’re in the season of Spotify year-end reviews, what’s your favorite song right now?
Un Gato en la Obscurida by Roberto Carlos (full song here).
Also Worth Reading
For those who want more, we asked El Tigre five other questions last June. Read or revisit them (here).
