IBF minimumweight champion Pedro Taduran during the official weigh-in ahead of his title defense against Japan’s Ginjiro Shigeoka at INTEX Osaka.–CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Don’t expect Pedro Taduran to beat around the bush in his world title rematch against Ginjiro Shigeoka when the opening bell rings on Saturday at INTEX Osaka in Japan.

“As soon as the first round begins, Pedro is going to be there, throwing punches, ducking, throwing punches,” head trainer Carl Penalosa Jr. said during Friday’s official weigh-in at Hotel Monterey Grasmere.

READ: Pedro Taduran upsets Japan champ to reclaim IBF world title

“No other way Pedro fights. He will be starting strong and finishing strong. Pedro doesn’t have a choice but to move forward.”

It was the same winning formula Taduran’s camp concocted in the first bout that saw the Libon, Albay native pull off a stunning ninth-round stoppage of home bet Shigeoka to claim the IBF minimumweight crown in July 2024 in Otsu.

“There will be no time to relax when Pedro fights. I have faith and confidence in his stamina and staying power,” Penalosa added.

Taduran (17-4-1, 13KOs) dealt Shigeoka (11-1, 9KOs) his first loss and he’s poised to deliver an encore.

READ: Rene Cuarto retains title, beats Pedro Taduran in rematch

“It’s the moment I have been waiting for,” said Taduran, who was also accompanied by his co-managers Marty and Cucuy Elorde.

The 28-year-old Taduran tipped the scales at 104.5 pounds while Shigeoka came in at 105.

“My condition now is much better than the last time,” said Shigeoka.

Struggling to stave off a relentless Taduran, the 25-year-old Shigeoka lost steam midway through their first meeting.

“We have to apply pressure right from the start,” said Penalosa.