Press conference: Pacquiao and Ugas want to keep WBA belt

Manny Pacquiao vs. Yordenis Ugas

Journalists and fans had the opportunity to hear from Manny Pacquiao and Yordenis Ugas what they expect from their bout next Saturday for the World Boxing Association (WBA) welterweight super championship.

The last press conference before the fight was full of cordiality and respect from both fighters, but they also made it clear that they want to prove in the ring who of the two deserves the black and gold belt of the pioneer organization.

“We are both champions. When I knew I would fight Ugás, I only needed two days to adapt for a right-handed fighter. It’s good for me, most of my career I faced southpaws, it’s not a problem for me,” stressed legend Manny Pacquiao.

Pacquiao was initially scheduled to face Errol Spence Jr. but a last-minute injury to the American took him out of the bout. As luck would have it, Ugas was ready and fully prepared to fight on the same date.

“I pray for Spence and his prompt recovery, that he can regain his health, that’s the most important thing. When I was told I couldn’t fight I felt bad, but thank God Ugas wanted to challenge me,” highlighted the Filipino.

Ugas has great ambition and knows that the possibility of beating Pacquiao puts him face to face with history.

“It was a long road to get here, it was in a strange way but I’m grateful and it will be a great fight. Very honored for the opportunity,” said the Cuban. “I’ve been as an emergency opponent before, but this time I’m going against a legend. There will be no excuses on Saturday.”

Now all that’s left for them to do is step on the scales to make 147 pounds at Friday’s weigh-in ceremony and once they make weight, they will be ready to fight Saturday night for the black and gold belt.

(Kristian von Sponneck)

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