Taras Shelestyuk Enjoying Working with New Trainer Joel Diaz Ahead of Saturday's Fight

ORANGE, Calif./Philadelphia, Penn. (June 27, 2017) - Undefeated, world ranked welterweight Taras "The Real Deal" Shelestyuk is banking on his new trainer, the highly regarded Joel Diaz, to take his game to the next level.

"I enjoy working with Joel Diaz," said Shelstyuk, who brought home a bronze finish in the 2012 London Olympics to his native Ukraine. "He's a great communicator. He knows how to bring out the best in boxers."

Shelestyuk (15-0, 9 KOs), who on Saturday headlines Thompson Boxing's "Locked n' Loaded" 8-round main event from Omega Products in Sacramento, Calif., is currently ranked No. 5 by the WBO.

At 31, Shelestyuk can ill afford a slip up on his way up the official rankings. His opponent, Jesus Alvarez Rodriguez (15-2, 11 KOs), is all too eager to play the spoiler on Saturdaynight.

"I know I can't sleep on Rodriguez," said Shelestyuk, who is promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing. "I have to make a statement early in the fight to let him know what I'm about."

Shelestyuk vs. Rodriguez and the entire 8-bout card will be streamed live on TB Presents: Locked n' Loaded. Watch the action on Banner Promotions Facebook Page , and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @BannerBoxing.