Indonesia's Chris "The Dragon" John is back in training and making good progress at the Summit Gym in Big Bear Mountain, California, as of mid-August, says the WBA featherweight champion.
Chris was earlier forced to postpone a rematch against American Ricardo Rocky Juarez due to a health problem.
Having successfully defended his title 11 times, Chris is scheduled to face Juarez - a rematch following a draw on Mar. 28 - at the MMC Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada, on Sept. 19.
The rematch was initially scheduled for June 27 at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas, but had to be pushed back due to Chris suffering from hypoxemia, a condition leading to the insufficient oxygenation of arterial blood.
The first fight, at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, ended in a controversial draw, though Indonesian fans watching the fight live on local TV believed their hero should have emerged the winner.
Despite failing to win, Chris still retained his title.
In an email sent to The Jakarta Post last Friday, Chris said his condition had been showing a gradual improvement.
"Overall, my physical condition has been improving," he said.
"During my stay here *in California*, I've been taking up physical training in the morning and sparring in the afternoon.
"My sparring partners are *former IBF featherweight champion* Orlando Salido Rivera *of Mexico* and Eloy, whose styles have similarities with Juarez's fighting style," said Chris, who won the world title in 2003 and has since never relinquished it.
With most of his fights taking place in Indonesia, Japan and Australia, Chris has recorded 42 wins (22 by KO), two draws and no defeats.
In an interview several months ago, Chris said he learned about Juarez's character through his fight videos, adding the Houston native had his own specialty with his left hand.
Juarez is the 2000 Olympic silver medalist, and boasts a record of 28 victories (19 by KO), one draw and four defeats.
Chris said he hoped that training in a mountainous area would help boost his stamina.
"I hope to reach my peak condition in time for the fight," he said.
