Pelon Andrade Hails Andre Lambe’s Win
[Written by Stephen Wright]
Boxing coach Varo Pelon Andrade believes the “best is still to come” from Andre Lambe after he enjoyed the biggest win of his career against Kendo Castaneda in Galveston, Texas, at the weekend.
Lambe [13-0] secured the vacant American Boxing Organisation regional welterweight title with a unanimous points decision over the seasoned Castaneda [21-9] in their eight-round bout.
Andrade, who began coaching Lambe during his amateur days at Allan “Forty” Rego’s gym in Warwick, said he was proud of how his fighter handled a tough and experienced opponent.
“We haven’t seen the best of Andre yet,” Andrade told Bernews. “There’s much more to come from him.
“It takes high-calibre opponents like Kendo to draw that out. He’s improving with every fight. This was just a glimpse of what he’s capable of.”
Andrade praised Lambe for adapting his strategy mid-fight.
“After the first round, I told him he couldn’t afford to stay on the back foot the whole time,” he said.
“He had to press forward, be the aggressor, and earn Castaneda’s respect. Otherwise, he would have spent eight rounds being pushed back – and that’s exhausting.”
The victory was even sweeter for Andrade, who hails from Galveston.
“There was definitely some pressure!” said Andrade, who returns to the island with Lambe tomorrow [June 18].
“I had a lot of family and friends there – football alumni too – who came expecting a show.
“Win, lose, or draw, I just wanted Andre to be aggressive and give it everything. When the final bell rang, it felt like Christmas!”
Lambe, a slick southpaw, said the win marked an important milestone and is eyeing at least two more fights this year.
“I want to take another step up before the end of the year and get a few more eight-rounders under my belt,” he said. “I’m staying active – no breaks this year.”
He added: “I picked up some new fans in Texas, which was one of my goals. I enjoy fighting overseas. I’m very critical of myself, though – there are still things I need to fix and work on.”
It’s beautiful to see our many boxers continue to climb up the ranks in careers. Well done Andre and you team.
Congratulations
Super proud of the entire team and especially Showtime!! Great display of boxing ability.