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Isaac Pitbull Cruz’s team: “He would knock out Lomachenko”

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Isaac Pitbull Cruz’s team: “He would knock out Lomachenko” | Boxen247.com

Isaac Pitbull Cruz’s team: “He would knock out Lomachenko” | Boxen247.com

Without hesitation, Isaac ‘Pitbull’ Cruz would fight Vasyl Lomachenko as Orlando ‘Siri’ Salido did and even knock him out. This was assured by Isaac Cruz, father and coach of Pitbull Cruz, who said in an interview with IZQUIERDAZO that he saw the Ukrainian out of rhythm and that they would already know how to defeat him.

“It would be an identical copy of the fight that Siri Salido did to Lomachenko”, he said. “If Siri Salido beat him at a certain age and with great experience, I really have no doubt that we would beat Lomachenko”.

Because of the demonstration that Vasyl Lomachenko gave against Jamaine Ortiz and what he showed in the ring, Isaac Cruz thinks that his son could KO the Ukrainian. “I saw him out in bad shape. I have no doubt at all, and what I could confirm is that the decision would not be reached”, he insisted.

The European defeated Ortiz on Saturday in New York. in an event where ‘Loma’ had struggles against a rival who at times looked good.

Vasyl has suffered two defeats in his career, the first in his second duel as a professional against Orlando Salido. That same pressing strategy would be carried out by Pitbull in an eventual bout.

Isaac Cruz Sr. recalled that in the Ukrainian’s fights, particularly the one with Siri, the Mexican did not give him space, something that affected Vasyl. “We are going to work for that. He was not giving him a break, that hurts Lomachenko”.

And although he acknowledged that the “Loma” has a style that stands out, he knows that what Pitbull does would leave the former world champion without options. “He boxes very nicely, but he is not used to being overwhelmed so much. Pitbull goes over and over”, he concluded.

After winning vs. Eduardo Ramirez on September 4, Pitbull is taking a well-deserved break that will last until March or April.

While Pitbull enjoys his family, the management of Manny Pacquiao Promotions, in addition to Sean Gibbons, analyze what will be the best option for his return to the rings.

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Andy Ruiz Jr. defeats Luis Ortiz – Full results from Los Angeles

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Andy Ruiz Jr. defeats Luis Ortiz - Full results from Los Angeles | Boxen247.com

Andy Ruiz Jr. defeats Luis Ortiz - Full results from Los Angeles | Boxen247.com

Former unified heavyweight world champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. scored three knockdowns on his way to a unanimous decision victory over top contender Luis “King Kong” Ortiz in their WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator that headlined a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View Sunday night from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

“Everyone was doubting me, but I worked so hard for this fight,” said Ruiz. “Ortiz is a warrior who hits hard. I did a beautiful job boxing him around. I showed more class than I usually do just coming forward.”

The first fighter of Mexican descent to become heavyweight world champion, Ruiz (35-2, 22 KOs) got his hometown crowd on its feet early, as he delivered a clean right hand to score his first knockdown in round two. Ortiz (33-3, 28 KOs) would hit the canvas a second time in the round, but got to his feet again and delivered several strong left hands to keep himself in the fight and make it through the round.

“I told you I was going to be a warrior and that’s what I did,” said Ortiz. “This is Cuba vs. Mexico. This is what I live for. To everyone who said that I’m old, I gave you a war today. There are always surprises in boxing, and that’s what you got if you didn’t think I’d give it my all.”

Ortiz got himself back in the fight over the subsequent rounds with impressive boxing as he relied on his jab and movement to keep Ruiz from inflicting further damage. In round seven however, Ruiz struck again, backing his opponent up with a straight right before moving close and dropping Ortiz with an overhand right.

“It was a difficult fight,” said Ruiz. “I was waiting for him to load up and countering him when he did. It was a blessing we were able to be successful.”

Despite Ruiz pushing forward, Ortiz again used his excellent boxing acumen to remain in the fight. Ortiz even owned a slight 78-76 edge in punches landed according to CompuBox, but it was Ruiz’s 67 power punches to Ortiz’s 56 that made the difference. After hurting Ortiz again in round 11 and winning the round on all three cards, Ruiz was able to hold off a late charge from Ortiz to edge the fight on the judges cards by scores of 114-111 twice, and 113-112.

After the fight, Ruiz stated his willingness to meet former WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay Wilder in a possible blockbuster showdown, if Wilder is successful in his ring return October 15 against Robert Helenius on FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View. Wilder, who was seated ringside, matched Ruiz’s enthusiasm for the potential matchup.

“If Deontay Wins in October, me and him are with the same management and we can make this fight happen,” said Ruiz Jr. “Let’s do it. Let’s get it on. I’m hungry and I want to be champion again and bring that belt back to Mexico.”

“Deontay Wilder is back and I’m always looking for great exciting fights for the fans,” said Wilder. “If Andy Ruiz Jr. is what’s next, then I’m ready to get it on.”

In the co-main event, top lightweight contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz (24-2-1, 17 KOs) delivered a highlight-reel knockout over veteran contender Eduardo Ramirez (27-3-3, 12 KOs) in the second round of their showdown.

Already a fan-favorite after giving three-division world champion Gervonta Davis all he could handle in defeat at this same arena last December, Mexico City’s Cruz entered the ring to roaring approval as he looked for another statement victory.

“I was ready to win at all costs, for my family and what better way to win than here in front of all the great fans in Los Angeles,” said Cruz.”

Midway through round two, Davis showed the fight-changing power that he possesses and that has helped make him a fan favorite in Los Angeles and beyond. Cruz first connected flush with a big left hook around a Ramirez jab that sent Ramirez to the mat hard.

While Ramirez was able to get to his feet, Cruz pushed forward, sensing his moment to end the fight. Using a feint right hand, Ramirez caught Cruz cleanly with another left hook and followed up with a powerful right hand to score a second knockdown. This time referee Jack Reiss jumped in immediately and halt the bout 2:27 into the round.

“I lost and I have to accept that,” said Ramirez. “I’ll get better and move forward. I felt like I was fighting well and then everything turned all of a sudden. That’s just boxing. Now I’m going to rest, recover and plan my next moves going forward. But I’ll definitely be back, you can count on that.”

In his post-fight interview with FOX Sports’ Heidi Androl, Cruz declared his intention to rematch WBA Lightweight Champion Gervonta Davis, who was seated ringside.

“We want the rematch with Gervonta Davis,” said Cruz. “That’s what these fans want. I promised the knockout tonight and we got it done.”

In his first fight in over four years, former three-division world champion Abner Mares (31-3-2, 15 KOs) fought Miguel Flores (25-4-1, 12 KOs) to an exciting majority draw after 10-rounds in their lightweight duel.

Mares had a hot start to his ring-return, landing a series of sharp right hands early in round two that brought his hometown Southern California crowd to its feet as their hometown hero landed 42 blows in the frame. A world champion at bantamweight, super bantamweight and featherweight throughout his career, Mares believed he had done enough to win the fight.

“Obviously it had been over four years, so I was a little off with my timing and a little sluggish,” said Mares. “But I felt good and I thought I was landing the more powerful shots throughout.”

Although Mares held a 151 to 124 edge in punches landed, the two combatants were even at 90 to 90 in punches landed throughout rounds three through 10. His improvement in the second half of the fight was enough for the victory in Flores’ eyes.

“It was a good fight and obviously I thought that I pulled it off,” said Flores. “I know we’re in his hometown and he’s a veteran so it is what it is. He was trying to pot shot me, but I was catching most of it. He got me with a couple good shots early on but I felt like I was in control after the fourth round.”

Flores had his best rounds in the final two frames, sweeping the ninth and 10th on all three cards to clinch the draw. The raucous 10th round left the fans on their feet with both fighters raising their hand in victory before the scores of 95-95 twice and 96-94 for Mares were read.

“It was a great atmosphere,” said Flores. “It’s hard to not let the crowd get you carried away. I know they were cheering for me too by the end. This leaves me in a great position. We got a draw against a three-division world champion so it leaves a good taste in your mouth.”

“After four years away I did enough to beat a young kid and an active fighter,” said Mares. “My performance speaks for itself. The crowd was happy and it felt good to be home. I definitely felt like I won but it is what it is, the judges saw a draw.”

In the pay-per-view opener, the Dominican Republic’s Edwin De Los Santos (15-1, 14 KOs) scored an upset via third-round TKO as he dropped the previously unbeaten Jose Valenzuela (12-1, 8 KOs) three times before referee Ray Corona waived off the bout 1:08 into the round.

“Valenzuela is a fighter who I feel has been protected and I wanted to show everyone what I’m capable of,” said De Los Santos. “The plan wasn’t to come forward so much, but when I saw how he was fighting, I was ready to go toe-to-toe. The Mexican fighters love to fight like that, but he was open for me to attack.”

“I didn’t expect De Los Santos to be as aggressive as he was in the fight,” said Valenzuela. “He gave it out as he good as he took. I just want to focus on getting back in the ring and redeeming myself.”

A late replacement who officially stepped in to face Valenzuela this week, De Los Santos looked sharp from the outset, staggering Valenzuela in round one, although Valenzuela was able to survive the round. Early in round two Valenzuela was staggered again, but was able to shift the momentum temporarily, landing a powerful left hook that put De Los Santos down.

After rising to his feet, De Los Santos was able to regain momentum with a series of right hooks that put Valenzuela down hard. De Los Santos was penalized by the referee for throwing an extra shot while Valenzuela was down, which gave Valenzuela extra time to recover and make it through the round.

De Los Santos looked the fresher fighter heading into the round and was able to drop Valenzuela again early in the frame. Valenzuela again was able to get back on his feet but after a follow up flurry from De Los Santos, the referee jumped in and officially waived off the fight.

“I came in against a ranked fighter tonight and I was up for the task,” said De Los Santos. “Now I want the same name that everyone wants. I want Gervonta Davis.”

Prior to the PPV, prelims live on FOX and FOX Deportes featured rising unbeaten super welterweight Joey Spencer (16-0, 10 KOs) earn a career-best 10-round unanimous decision over Kevin Salgado (14-1-1, 9 KOs).

“He’s a hard-hitting counter puncher, so we wanted to control the distance,” said Spencer. “I feel really strong. I’m really proud of the work that we put into my conditioning and I think it showed in the fight. I’m improving as I get more experience, and that helps me stay more composed in these fights. I’m going to keep adding to my game as I get more comfortable. I’m definitely working towards improving as an offensive fighter.”

In his first 10-round fight as a pro, the 22-year-old Spencer turned away what many considered the toughest opponent of his career, riding an 79 to 54 edge in punches landed to victory. Mexico’s Salgado proved to be a stiff test for Spencer as he continued to push forward until the final bell. After 10 rounds, all three judges saw it in Spencer’s favor by scores of 99-91 twice and 100-90.

“I have a couple ideas of who I want to fight next,” said Spencer. “Tony Harrison, Tim Tszyu, Erickson Lubin and Sebastian Fundora are all guys I want to fight. I want to face the best. There’s one champion in the division and we have to fight each other to get to him.”

In action live on FS1 and FOX Deportes, unbeaten super bantamweight contender Ra’eese Aleem (20-0, 12 KOs) showed off his considerable boxing skill in earning a unanimous decision over Mike Plania (26-2, 13 KOs) in their 10-round duel.

“The fight was everything that I expected,” said Aleem. He’s a very tough fighter and a great competitor. I just wanted to fight a smart fight, because we know he’s dangerous. Although I didn’t feel his power, I know that he can hit. I just wanted to take my time and let everything fall into place.”

Aleem scored a knockdown early in round two to jump out to the early lead and controlled the action throughout, displaying an impressive and varied attack highlighted by a variety of left hands. After closing the show with a dominant 10th and final round, Aleem earned the decision by score of 100-89 three times.

“It’s time for ‘scared boy’ Stephen Fulton Jr. to come out of hiding and sign the contract,” said Aleem. “Let’s get in there so I can give him his first loss. It would be a closer fight than tonight, but I still expect to dominate and get the win.”

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Andy Ruiz Jr. vs. Luis Ortiz: Headlines in Los Angeles on September 4

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Andy Ruiz Jr. vs. Luis Ortiz: Headlines in Los Angeles on September 4 | Boxen247.com

Andy Ruiz Jr. vs. Luis Ortiz: Headlines in Los Angeles on September 4 | Boxen247.com

Andy Ruiz Jr. vs. Luis Ortiz

Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, USA – 4 September 2022

Stacked Undercard Lineup Features Top Lightweight Contender Isaac Cruz Taking on Exciting Contender Eduardo Ramírez in Co-Main Event

Plus! Three-Division Champion Abner Mares Makes Long-Awaited Ring Return Against Former Title Challenger
Miguel Flores

Former unified heavyweight champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. and top contender Luis “King Kong” Ortiz will meet in a much-anticipated 12-round WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View on September 4 in a Labor Day Weekend clash from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

The pay-per-view telecast will begin at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and feature a stacked lineup of rising and accomplished stars in high-stakes matchups. In the co-main event, hard-hitting Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz will step in to take on fellow Mexican and veteran contender Eduardo Ramírez in a 12-round WBC Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event.

The action will also see the return of popular three-division champion Abner Mares in his first action in three years as he battles former title challenger Miguel Flores in a 10-round super featherweight attraction, plus exciting rising star José Valenzuela duels former world champion Jezreel Corrales in the 10-round lightweight pay-per-view opener.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, go on sale tomorrow, Thursday, June 23 at 10 a.m. PT and can be purchased online at AXS.com

Pre-sale tickets are available NOW until 10 p.m. PT through AXS.com with the code: BOXING or CRYPTO

“The fight fans in Los Angeles are in for an action-packed Labor Day Weekend as Southern California’s Mexican-American star Andy Ruiz Jr. returns in his toughest test since his title run, against the always dangerous Cuban southpaw Luis Ortiz on September 4,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “This is a perfect clash for the electric atmosphere at Crypto.com Arena and is sure to deliver fireworks. The FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View main event will prove once again that high-stakes heavyweight action is a must-see event. Adding in a slew of intriguing undercard matchups and this will be a night that will keep fans glued to their seats from start to finish.”

Ruiz (34-2, 22 KOs) shocked the boxing world in 2019 when he was brought in as a late replacement to face heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua and turned the tables on the champion, knocking him out in the seventh round and taking home the titles. The 32-year-old from Imperial, California lost his rematch with Joshua by unanimous decision, but returned to the ring in May 2021, bouncing back from an early knockdown to defeat all-action contender Chris Arreola by unanimous decision in a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View. Ruiz has taken down a slew of contenders throughout his heralded career, which dates back to a prolific amateur run that included two Mexican Amateur National Championships.

“I’m so excited to get back in the ring in front of all of my fans in Los Angeles on September 4,” said Ruiz. “This is my chance to prove to everyone that I’m going to be heavyweight champion of the world again. I’m super motivated to be facing a great fighter like Luis Ortiz, so my fans can expect to see me at my best. Everyone has wanted to see this fight and we’re going to give everyone a war on fight night.”

With exceptional power and sublime technical skills, Ortiz (33-2, 28 KOs) has been a fixture atop heavyweight rankings for years, with his only defeats coming in memorable contests against former longtime heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder. Born in Camaguey, Cuba and trained by longtime coach Herman Caicedo in Miami, Ortiz won three bouts between Wilder contests, defeating Travis Kauffman, Christian Hammer and Razvan Cojanu. Most recently, Ortiz topped a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View on New Year’s Day, recovering from early adversity to floor former heavyweight world champion Charles Martin on his way to a sixth-round knockout.

“I’m blessed to be back in a position to get closer to achieving my goal of becoming the first heavyweight champion of the world from Cuba,” said Ortiz. “Anyone who doubts me, has only fueled me to keep going. I know that I have to make a big statement in this fight, and that’s my plan on September 4. I respect Andy Ruiz, but he’s standing in my way and I’m going to do whatever it takes to go through him.”

The 24-year-old Cruz (23-2-1, 16 KOs) returned to the ring in April with a knockout over former champion Yuriorkis Gamboa after dropping a competitive decision against three-division champion Gervonta Davis last December. A native of Mexico City, Cruz shot up the lightweight rankings in 2020, announcing his presence with an electrifying first-round knockout over veteran Diego Magdaleno in October. Cruz followed that up in 2021 by winning a unanimous decision over previously unbeaten Matías Romero in March and by defeating former champion Francisco Vargas by decision in June ahead of the Davis clash.

“I’m very happy and motivated to come back in the ring in front of the great fans in Los Angeles on September 4,” said Cruz. “I’ll be facing a very good opponent and I’ll be back at the same arena where I faced one of the best fighters in the division in Gervonta Davis. Stepping back into the ring there is pumping me up even more and I can’t wait to start throwing my hands on fight night.”

Fighting out of Sinaloa, Mexico, Ramírez (27-2-3, 12 KOs) has moved himself into title contention with five-straight victories as he looks to make a splash in his lightweight debut against Cruz. The 29-year-old most recently earned a decision victory over Luis Melendez in May, which followed up a dominant decision against Miguel Marriaga in December 2021. Ramírez is currently riding wins in seven of his last eight fights since losing to then featherweight champion Lee Selby in 2017.

“I am coming up in weight for this fight, but that just means I’ll be that much stronger,” said Ramírez. “I’m excited for this opportunity, because after I win, I will be recognized as a top fighter in my new division. He’s not going to outbox me and he can’t knock me out, so he has no way to win. I’m planning on showing the world what I can do against a perfect opponent for me.”

One of the most accomplished fighters of this era, Mares (31-3-1, 15 KOs) will return to the ring in a bid to continue adding to his already sterling resume in the sport. Born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico and now living in Montebello, Calif., Mares was a member of the Mexican Olympic boxing team in the 2004 Athens Olympics before going on to win world titles at bantamweight, super bantamweight and featherweight. His two battles for the featherweight world title against Leo Santa Cruz epitomized the kinds of high-volume clashes that set Mares apart from many of his contemporaries. Throughout his career, Mares owns victories over top contenders and champions including Daniel Ponce De Leon, Vic Darchinyan, Joseph Agbeko, Anselmo Moreno and Jesus Cuellar.

“I know everyone is used to seeing me suited and booted on T.V. talking about the beautiful sport of boxing, but let me remind everyone, I’m a bad m-f’er in the ring, and on September 4, the world is going to remember what they missed,” said Mares. “I’m the best in boxing in speed, power, intelligence, and good looks. Miguel Flores is on my radar, and I’m sorry to say, he’s going back to elementary school after meeting me. I’m a master in this game, and I’m back. Welcome to Team Mares 2022.”

Flores (24-4, 12 KOs) bounced back from back-to-back defeats in his previous outing that took place last June, as he earned a decision over Diuhl Olguin. The 29-year-old had lost a pair of contests in challenging four-division champion Leo Santa Cruz in November 2019 and top contender Eduardo Ramirez in December 2020. Born in Mexico and now residing in Spring, Texas, Flores turned pro in 2009 at just 17-years-old and was victorious in his first 22 bouts.

“I’m very motivated to be on the big stage once again and I’m excited to get into the ring,” said Flores. “This is a huge opportunity for me against a three-division champion and I’m doing everything I can to make the most of it. This is Michoacán vs. Guadalajara and we’re going to give all the fans a great show on September 4.”

The 23-year-old Valenzuela (12-0, 8 KOs) trains as a stablemate of unbeaten two-time world champion David Benavidez as he looks to continue cementing his contender status in 2022. Valenzuela was sensational his last time in the ring as he blasted out former world champion Francisco Vargas via a round-one knockout in April. Born in Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico, Valenzuela turned pro in 2018 and rode a five-bout knockout streak before earning his first 10-round decision in a victory over Deiner Berrio in September 2021.

“I’m extremely motivated for this fight,” said Valenzuela. “My opponent is an accomplished former champion and this is the kind of challenge that I’ve been asking for. I’m going to come into this fight extremely prepared to make another statement on September 4 and give the fans a great show like I always do.”

The 30-year-old Corrales (26-4, 10 KOs) has won three-straight fights since moving up to lightweight in 2021 and has ascended to the number two ranking in the WBA. Fighting out of San Miguelito, Panama, Corrales won a super featherweight title in 2016 when he went to Japan and knocked out Takashi Uchiyama before winning a decision in their rematch. He also owns victories over current former champion Rene Alvarado and veteran contender Robinson Castellanos.

“Valenzuela is a good young fighter with some skills, but he doesn’t have the experience to handle what I’m bringing to the ring,” said Corrales. “This is going to be like when the great Panamanian champion Roberto Duran took Davey Moore to school. Class is going to be in session on September 4 and no amount of studying is going to have him ready for what I’m planning to do.”

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Spence Jr. stops Ugás, Cruz, Crowley and Valenzuela all win in Texas

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Spence Jr. stops Ugás, Cruz, Crowley and Valenzuela all win in Texas | Boxen247.com

Spence Jr. stops Ugás, Cruz, Crowley and Valenzuela all win in Texas | Boxen247.comBoxen247.com YouTube Channel

Errol Spence Jr. vs. Yordenis Ugás

AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, USA – 16 April 2022

The Big Fish successfully navigated treacherous waters on Saturday night to pick up a third welterweight title. IBF and WBC welterweight champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. showed his greatness against WBA champion Yordenis Ugás, battling back from early adversity to stop Ugás in the tenth round on SHOWTIME PPV live from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event before an announced crowd of 39,946. Click HERE to watch the Spence victory announcement.

The remaining welterweight title not in Spence’s possession belongs to WBO titleholder Terence Crawford, who was an interested observer on Saturday, Tweeting his reaction to the Spence victory. Spence made clear his preference for his next opponent.

“Everybody knows who I want next,” Spence said. “I want Terence Crawford. That’s the fight that I want. That’s the fight everybody else wants. Like I said, I’m going to get these straps then go over there and take his too. Terence I’m coming for that belt!”

Spence had to overcome some harsh conditions courtesy of Ugás to get to this point. After Ugás hurt Spence in the sixth, knocking his mouthpiece out with an uppercut, Spence of DeSoto, Texas, stormed back to hurt Ugás repeatedly to the body and eye. By the tenth round, Ugás’ right eye was completely shut when referee Laurence Cole stopped the contest for the second time to allow the ringside physician to inspect the damage.

Unlike earlier, the doctor advised Cole to stop the bout at 1:44 of the tenth round, giving Spence (28-0, 22 KOs) a resounding victory, a third welterweight belt, and perhaps the greatest triumph of his still accumulating career following a 17-month layoff after corrective surgery to his left eye forced him to pull out of a mega-fight with Manny Pacquiao. Ugás stepped in for Spence on late notice, beating and retiring Pacquiao last summer, setting the stage for Saturday’s welterweight unification contest, just the 12th in the division’s history.

“I believe that you’re going to go through trials and tribulations,” Spence said. “I went through a lot of trials. I got tested and I passed the tests due to my upbringing. My mother and my father always telling me not to quit and not to give up and just believing in myself and my family. I wanted to prove them wrong, and I knew that I could come back. Why would I quit now?”

Ugás’ size and skill appeared to confound Spence early on. The Cuban Olympic bronze medalist hurt Spence with a right uppercut and a right hand that had Spence falling back into the ropes and sent his mouthpiece flying in the sixth. The referee interrupted the action with 1:32 left in the frame to allow trainer Derrick James to replace the mouthpiece. Following the break, Spence returned fire, banging to Ugás’ body to end the frame on a high note.

The referee again interrupted the action with 53 seconds left in the eighth to have the doctor examine Ugás’ right eye, which was nearly shut, the result of Spence timing Ugas with hard right hands. Spence jumped on him moments later, nailing Ugás (27-5, 12 KOs) to the body, sensing the end may be near.

Ugás appeared to hurt Spence to the body with a right hand in the ninth and again with a left to the body, for which he was warned by the referee for veering a little low.

Spence came back and hurt Ugás with a right to the body in the tenth that had him retreating, covering up, clearly in pain. The referee again had the doctor check on Ugás’ right eye, this time deciding he had sustained enough punishment. Ugás screamed in dismay, clearly wanting to continue, while Spence shouted to the rafters in pure joy and stomped his feet on the canvas.

“I feel sad,” Ugás said. “I trained really hard for this fight. All my respect to Errol Spence. He’s a great champion. I’m just sad about what happened tonight. The referee stopped the fight, but I wanted to keep going to the end. I definitely had a chance to win the fight in the sixth round, but he recuperated well. Congratulations to him and his team.”

Lightweight contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz proved his impressive performance against three-division champion Gervonta Davis last December wasn’t a fluke. In a dominant, knockdown-filled performance, Cruz dropped the proud former unified featherweight champion Yuriorkis Gamboa four times en route to a dominant fifth-round stoppage of Gamboa in the co-main event.

A monster left-right hand combination from Cruz sent Gamboa careening into the ropes, causing the referee to wave the bout off at 1:32 of the round of the scheduled 10-round lightweight bout. Cruz threw 36 power punches per round landing an average of 11 per round.

“I’m here to defeat and dethrone anyone that gets in my way while putting on a show for the fans,” Cruz said. “I wanted to send a clear message to the division that I’m here to be a world champion no matter what. Mexico, just wait until we arrive. We have something special planned for you when we come back to celebrate.”

Cruz (23-2-1, 16 knockouts) hurt Gamboa with a big left hook early in the first round. Gamboa stumbled back against the ropes, his balance off, legs wobbly and held on to survive the remainder of the round.

Cruz dropped Gamboa (30-5, 18 knockouts) with a right-left combo with seconds left in the second round that buckled Gamboa’s legs and caused him to touch the canvas.

Cruz jumped him to start the third, knocking him down again seconds into the frame with a left hook. But again, Gamboa danced his way out of trouble again to make it to the fourth. In the fourth, Cruz dropped Gamboa again with a left hand toward the end of the round.

José Valenzuela (12-0, 8 knockouts) made a startling statement about his punching power and future in the lightweight division in his bout with former champion Francisco Vargas. Valenzuela landed a looping left hand that sent Vargas crashing to the canvas, prompting the referee to immediately stop the scheduled 10-round lightweight bout at 1:25 of the first round in Saturday’s second pay-per-view bout. Click HERE for the knockout.

A stablemate of unbeaten two-time world champion David Benavidez, Valenzuela, 22, stepped back to avoid the 37-year-old Vargas’ jab and launched forward with a windup left that landed clean. Vargas (27-4-2, 19 KOs), who won a 130-pound title in 2015, dropped his second straight while Valenzuela has now stopped seven of his last eight opponents.

“I worked hard for this and stayed calm, and I stayed patient and went for it when I saw the opening,” said Valenzuela, who referenced the support of Benavidez, standing in the ring next to him. “Working alongside this guy right here, David Benavidez, he has shown me a lot of things in and out. I look to see what he does and what he goes through. He tells me to be patient and that’s what I did. I was expecting (Vargas) to get up but when I took a look back, I knew. It was a good knockout.”

Canada’s Cody Crowley remained undefeated with a tough, punishing unanimous decision victory against veteran contender Josesito López in a 10-round contest of all-action welterweights that kicked off the PPV telecast. The scores were 98-91, 98-91, 99-90 for Crowley.

Crowley (21-0, 9 KOs) sent Lopez to the canvas with a cuffing right hand that seemed to graze the back of Lopez’s head and was deemed a knockdown by the referee. Though Lopez (38-9, 21 KOs) wasn’t hurt in that sequence, he was wobbled throughout by heavy shots, his left eye nearly shut, and his legs unsteady in the later rounds.

Still, as he has done against Canelo Alvarez, Marcos Maidana, Andre Berto and Victor Ortiz, the “Riverside Rocky” soldiered on, refusing to let his corner stop the fight even though he was offering little resistance. Crowley, who, according to CompuBox landed 41% of his power punches and 53 of 440 jabs, was back in action following a sterling SHOWTIME debut in December 2021 when he topped previously unbeaten Kudratillo Abdukakhorov by unanimous decision.

“I want to bring a world title back to Canada,” Crowley said. “Canada supports so much. You see what happens when the Raptors win a championship. The Toronto Maple Leafs hardly make it to the playoffs, and they sell out every single game. Canada just needs a horse to ride behind and I’m that horse. I guarantee we’ll sell out every arena when you bring Cody Crowley.”

The event was promoted by TGB Promotions and Man Down Promotions.

The SHOWTIME PPV will re-air on Saturday, April 23 at 9 p.m. ET/ 6 p.m. PT on SHOWTIME. All ACCESS: SPENCE VS. UGAS – EPILOGUE will follow the SHOWTIME PPV replay.

The most trusted and experienced team in combat sports called the pay-per-view. Veteran sportscaster Brian Custer hosted the SHOWTIME PPV telecast while versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo handled blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and three-division world champion Abner Mares. Three Hall of Famers rounded out the SHOWTIME telecast team – Emmy® Award-winning reporter Jim Gray, unofficial scorer Steve Farhood and world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. Former junior middleweight world champion Raúl “El Diamante” Marquez and sportscaster Alejandro Luna served as expert analysts in Spanish on Secondary Audio Programming (SAP).

The executive producer of SHOWTIME PPV was four-time Emmy award winner David Dinkins Jr., the director was Bob Dunphy, son of legendary Hall of Famer Don Dunphy.

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Errol Spence Jr vs. Yordenis Ugas – Media workout quotes

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Errol Spence Jr vs. Yordenis Ugas – Media workout quotes | Boxen247.com
Photo credit: Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME®

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Errol Spence Jr. vs. Yordenis Ugas

AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, USA – 16 April 2022

Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. said he was focused on scoring a knockout against Yordenis Ugas during a public media workout on Wednesday as Spence vs. Ugas fight week events officially kicked off with an outdoor session for fighters competing this Saturday, April 16 live on SHOWTIME PPV from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

The event is headlined by WBC and IBF World Champion Spence Jr. taking on WBA World Champion Ugas squaring off in a welterweight title unification clash.

“Besides the Kell Brook fight, this is definitely the meanest I’ve been going into a fight,” Spence said on Wednesday. “I’m just ready to go.”

Ugas, who worked out before Spence, said that his reach, height and his “will and my heart” are going to be the keys to pulling off an upset.

Also entering the ring for the media workout were fighters competing on the SHOWTIME PPV undercard featuring exciting lightweight contender Isaac Cruz battling former champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in the co-main event, rising unbeaten José Valenzuela taking on former champion Francisco Vargas in a lightweight bout and all-action welterweights Cody Crowley and Josesito López dueling in the telecast opener at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Fighters entering the ring for SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® action prior to the pay-per-view also previewed their respective showdowns during an undercard press conference on Wednesday. Fights live on SHOWTIME and streaming on the SHOWTIME SPORTS® YouTube Channel begin at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and feature WBA Welterweight Champion Radzhab Butaev facing unbeaten top contender Eimantas Stanionis in the main event, and unbeaten rising star Brandun Lee taking on Zachary Ochoa in a super lightweight bout.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Man Down Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at SeatGeek.com, the Official Ticketing Provider of AT&T Stadium.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from Texas Live! in Arlington:

ERROL SPENCE JR.

“It means everything to get a response like this in Dallas. It’s getting me pumped up. I’m ready to go. I’m ready to fight. I’m ready to put on a great performance in front of my hometown crowd.

“It’s eat or get ate. That’s all it is on Saturday night. Eat or get ate.

“Of course, I’m going to win. But I’m going for the knockout.

“There’s nothing to elaborate on when I said I’m going for the knockout. It’s what I said. So if I get it, I get it. If I don’t, I don’t. I know one hundred percent I’m getting the victory, but I definitely want to knock him out.

“It’s a blessing and a dream come true to get the support of your hometown. People are coming out here to support me with their hard-earned money during a difficult time. It’s a school night and people came out to support me and I really appreciate it.

“I’m one hundred percent ready. I’ve been training hard. I know the task at hand. Training camp has been going great. I know what I’m capable of. You can expect and you’re going to see fireworks. It’s going to be a great show and a great performance.

“This is going to be a great event. I’m excited to be fighting at home in front of family and longtime friends. I think people are going to come out and support and it’s going to be a great night of boxing.

“I’m going to fight Ugas like I’ve been fighting everybody else. He’s a very good fighter. He trains hard. He comes from a Cuban background and he’s very dedicated. But I feel like I’m one hundred percent dedicated and in prior fights, I haven’t been as focused as I am right now.”

YORDENIS UGAS

“I’m excited and ready to fight in front of a great fan base on Saturday night here in Dallas. Spence is a respectful fighter and we have nothing against each other outside of the ring, I’m just ready for action.

“I’m a competitor, I’m a warrior and I came to fight 12 rounds strong. That’s the most important thing of all. That alone should make Spence uneasy.

“I know I’m the underdog. I came here to win. I will fight whenever, wherever, in anybody’s backyard.

“Spence can say whatever he wants. I’ll fight the way I always do, exchanging blows and coming forward.

“I’ve always been an underdog – six years ago and now, I’m used to it. Spence is the rightful favorite as a unified champion in his home city, but I came here to pull off the upset.

“I want all of Cuba to know that I fight for them with all my heart and soul, and I will do just that on Saturday night.”

ISAAC CRUZ

“I’m super excited for this fight and I’m very thankful for all the support I’ve received here in Texas. I can’t wait to put on a show for everyone Saturday night.

“The biggest lesson I learned from the Gervonta Davis fight is that I need to prepare physically and mentally to not give one inch to any opponent ever again.

“I come to give everyone a good, clean fight. Whether this victory comes by knockout or by decision, it’s going to be fine by me.

“I feel right at home in front of these fans. That’s why I’m even more motivated to give everyone a great show. You’re not going to want to miss it.”

YURIORKIS GAMBOA

“I’m really thankful to be in this position, especially in front of these people here today. I’m very excited to give everyone a great fight. I can’t wait to show the world what I’m capable of.

“No matter what has happened in the past, you have to have courage and the conviction that you can win. That’s what I’m going to have on Saturday night.

“Every fight is different. The key thing is that we’re getting ready to prove to everyone that I can come out on top Saturday night.”

JOSE VALENZUELA

“I’m extremely excited for this fight. This is a dream come true and I’m thankful every day for this opportunity to compete on this card.

“Vargas is a great fighter with a lot of really good experience. We just saw him give Isaac Cruz a hard fight last time out. So I’m training for him like he’s in his prime and I’m ready for whatever he brings.

“I think a win in this fight will put me on the radar and put me in line to face the top guys in the lightweight division. I’m going to put on a performance that puts everyone on notice.”

FRANCISCO VARGAS

“This is a great opportunity for me and it’s going to be great action with me and Valenzuela. I’m really looking forward to this fight on Saturday.

“Every fight provides valuable lessons. My last fight versus Isaac Cruz was against a young scrappy fighter with some tricks up his sleeve. I’ve learned from it and you will see that in this fight.

“He’s a good fighter who’s dedicated to the sport. But I believe that I have more skills and much more experience than Valenzuela.”

CODY CROWLEY

“Josesito has been in there with a lot of amazing fighters. He’s an amazing fighter himself. But when Cody Crowley comes to fight, that’s a dog in the ring. Saturday night you can expect us to go at each other from the first bell to the last bell. That’s what I bring every time.

“I’m a pay-per-view star in the making and everyone is going to find out what I’m about Saturday night. If you haven’t heard of Cody Crowley yet, make sure you tune in Saturday night.”

JOSESITO LOPEZ

“I’m just prepared and can’t wait until Saturday night. My hunger to win is strong. I want to keep competing against the best fighters in the world and fight for world titles. I’ll be ready to face anybody they put in front of me.

“Any time you see one of my fights, especially when it’s here in Texas, they know that I come to fight. It’s going to be one of the best fights of the night for sure.

“I have a deep love for Texas and I can’t wait to show off in the ring on Saturday.”

RADZHAB BUTAEV

“My win against Jamal James was a good win and it’s given me more confidence moving forward. I’m just as hungry as Stanionis is and I know what to expect from him. I’m completely ready.

“This is the kind of fight I like to be in. I like to make it tough in there and bang with my opponent on the inside. I’m looking forward to it.

“It’s a big honor to be on this card. It’s easily one of the best cards of the year and it’s a great opportunity to show off my skills and my boxing.

“Once I stepped into the gym with my trainer Joel Diaz, he told me that I’m the best welterweight out there and that I’m going to become champion. Now we have the belt and I’m growing and getting better with every fight.

“The main event is a great fight. I’m looking forward to seeing who wins so that I can face them next.

“I don’t make predictions for my fights. I have a goal and that’s to stop my opponent. That’s what I’m working to do.”

EIMANTAS STANIONIS

“I’ve dreamt all my life of this moment Saturday night. I was extremely happy when this fight officially came together.

“It would be amazing to be the first world champion from Lithuania. Everyone is expecting me to win and rooting for me to get it done. I want to make the dream a reality.

“For sure the fans are going to be in for an entertaining fight. This is going to be two trucks meeting in the middle of the ring and making a big explosion.

“We both have a dream to win the belt. We’re both training hard to reach our goal. This is going to be a banger. That’s what our styles always create.

“Spence has a lot to prove, he was out for a long time. He’s going to have to look good and it’s going to be a good fight against Ugas.

“I just want to hear the words ‘and the new’ on Saturday night, that’s it, it’s simple.”

BRANDUN LEE

“This means the world to me to be on a huge card like this. I’m going to show the world who I am on Saturday night.

“I’m looking at this as another opportunity to showcase my skills. I’m just moving one step closer to the goal of a world title with a win on Saturday.

“I don’t let my knockout streak get to me. The main goal is to win. If the knockout comes, I’m ready. That’s the plan for Saturday night.

“I just stay focused and stay in the gym. Fighters get a little bit of fame and forget how hard they had to work to get there. I’m not going to be slacking.

“I am just blessed with power. A lot of people think you can create speed, but you can’t. You’re either born with it or you’re not. That’s the key to my power.

“I turn 23-years-old next week and I believe it’s time for me to start fighting the top-10 guys. Some guys may see more risk than reward fighting me, but eventually, they’ll have no choice.

“I don’t make predictions but I’m going to have my hand raised on April 16.”

ZACHARY OCHOA

“I said yes to this fight immediately. These are the types of fights that I want. SHOWTIME always has big fights and I want to be a part of them.

“I know the type of fighter I am. I’ve matured over the years, I’ve had a great training camp and I can’t wait to fight.

“Lee is a good fighter, but my experience in the ring is going to be the difference. I’ve fought in every kind of venue you can imagine. This is my second time fighting at AT&T Stadium. Experience goes a long way, but at the end of the day, it matters what you do under those bright lights.

“My trainer Stephen Edwards, he’s really brought me to school. He’s one of the best trainers in the world. I’ve learned more with him than I did my whole career. I’m very confident heading into Saturday.

“This is going to be a great fight and I’m winning at the end of the day. There’s a lot on the line and I’m going to be the winner Saturday. Winning this fight would change everything for me. I really can’t wait to get into the ring.”

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Gervonta Davis successfully defends his world title against Isaac Cruz

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Gervonta Davis successfully defends his world title against Isaac Cruz | Boxen247.com (Kristian von Sponneck)

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Gervonta Davis vs. Isaac Cruz

STAPLES Center, Los Angeles, USA – 5 December 2021

GERVONTA “TANK” DAVIS REMAINS UNDEFEATED WITH THRILLING UNANIMOUS DECISION OVER ISAAC “PITBULL” CRUZ

Boxing superstar and five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis put his boxing skills on display, winning a rousing 12-round round unanimous decision over the relentless Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz to retain his WBA Lightweight World Title in front of a star-studded, sellout crowd of 15,850 at STAPLES Center live on SHOWTIME Pay-Per-View, in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Scorecards read 116-112 and two scores of 115-113, all for Davis.

The atmosphere in the arena was electric, with scores of current and former NBA stars in attendance, including Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Kawhi Leonard, Dwight Howard, Kenny Smith, Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce among others.

Accompanied by superstar rapper Lil Durk, Davis entered the ring in Laker purple and gold; tassels along his trunks with the late Kobe Bryant’s number “8” and “24” on each side. Cruz celebrated his Mexican heritage with a mariachi band behind him as he strode toward the ring.

There was no feeling-out process in the first. Cruz charged at the defending champion, pinning him against the ropes and wailing away.

“That’s my style. ‘Pitbull’ is always going to be on the attack,” said Cruz. “I think we retained rhythm from the start to the end.”

Davis found his rhythm in the second and third, circling the ring and walking Cruz into shots. In the fourth, Cruz concentrated his attack on the body, pounding Davis’ ribs.

The 27-year-old Baltimore native turned on the power in the fourth, alternating between the right hook and left cross behind his southpaw stance. More punishing blows came from Davis during the fifth.

“He’s a shorter fighter, so I was throwing down on the top of his head,” said Davis. “I hit him with my knuckle and messed it up. I hurt my hand in the sixth round. No matter if the opponent is taller or shorter, I’ve got to get through it. He’s a warrior. Even though he didn’t win, a star was born tonight.”

“It was right around the fifth round I saw that his hand wasn’t working correctly,” Cruz observed.

Davis boxed beautifully in the middle rounds, firing quick shots and pivoting away from the return fire. A right hook in the eighth briefly buzzed Cruz and brought the audience to their feet. But just when it appeared as if the fight was slipping away, Cruz fought fire with fire, landing a flush uppercut seconds before the bell.

The 23-year-old Mexican picked up the pace in the latter rounds, keeping Davis on his toes and pounding away. Davis held his own, fighting back on even terms until the fight’s end.

Naturally, Cruz believed he deserved the victory.

“Viva Mexico. I have nothing to say, the fans are speaking on who won this fight,” he said.

Following a successful title defense, Davis said he’s ready for all comers.

“L.A., we did it for Kobe,” said Davis. “At the beginning of the fight, he came on strong. I felt as the fight was going, he was breaking down. But I hurt my hand, so I wasn’t able to get him out of there.

“Whatever the best opportunity is for me, I’ll do it. All of them guys are easy work. I’m the top dog.”

Photo Credit: Esther Lin / SHOWTIME

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Gervonta Davis & Isaac Cruz weigh-in ahead of tonight in Los Angeles

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Gervonta Davis vs. Isaac Cruz

STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, USA – 5/December 2021

Gervonta Davis – 134 ½ lbs.

Isaac Cruz – 134 ¼ lbs.

Referee: Thomas Taylor; Judges: Carla Caiz (Calif.), Max DeLuca (Calif.), Zachary Young (Calif.)

WBC Super Welterweight Title Eliminator – 12 Rounds

Sebastian Fundora – 153 ¼ lbs.

Sergio Garcia – 153 ½ lbs.

Referee: Ray Corona; Judges: Tom Carusone (Conn.), Dr. Lou Moret (Calif.), Alejandro Rochin (Mexico)

WBC Middleweight Title Eliminator – 10 Rounds

Sergiy Derevyanchenko – 159 ½ lbs.

Carlos Adames – 159 ½ lbs.

Referee: Eddie Hernandez, Sr.; Judges: Jerry Cantu (Calif.), Tiffany Clinton (Calif.), Damian Walton (Calif.)

Super Featherweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Eduardo Ramirez – 129 ½ lbs.

Miguel Marriaga – 129 ½ lbs.

Davis vs. Cruz will see five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis defend his WBA Lightweight Championship against hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz live on SHOWTIME PPV on Sunday, December 5 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features rising super welterweight star Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora facing fellow unbeaten Sergio Garcia in a WBC Super Welterweight World Title Eliminator that serves as the co-main event. Plus, hard-hitting middleweight contenders Sergiy Derevyanchenko and Carlos Adames square off in a 10-round WBC Middleweight World Title Eliminator, while top super featherweight contender Eduardo Ramirez faces former title challenger Miguel Marriaga in the pay-per-view opener.

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Davis and Cruz promised victory at press conference

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Gervonta Davis vs. Isaac Cruz

Staples Center in Los Angeles, California, USA – 5 December 2021

Gervonta Davis and Isaac Cruz were face to face at the press conference prior to next Sunday’s World Boxing Association (WBA) lightweight title fight at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California.

It was the first time that both fighters met face to face and both were confident and hungry to close the year in style.

The champion Davis said he was aware of the danger posed by his Mexican challenger, but stressed that it will help him to continue proving that he is one of the best in the category and continue his way to the top.

Cruz, for his part, was not intimidated by the occasion and said he is confident in his strength and skills to surprise on Sunday. The 23-year-old fighter has a great opportunity in front of him and wants to take advantage of it to move up to boxing’s elite.

After the meeting with the press, the only thing left to do is the weigh-in ceremony this Saturday and once they reach the 135 pounds required by the rules, they will be ready to fight for the title.

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Gervonta Davis vs. Isaac Cruz full details & full undercard ahead of Sunday

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Gervonta Davis vs. Isaac Cruz

Staples Center in Los Angeles, California, USA – 5 December 2021

On December 5th Premier Boxing Champions presents Gervonta Davis vs Isaac Cruz live on FITE straight from Staples Center in Los Angeles, California. In the main event of the evening the undefeated five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis defends his WBA Lightweight title against hard-hitting Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz. Who will come out on top? Who will be the new WBA Lightweight Champion?

Rising super welterweight star Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora will square off against fellow unbeaten Sergio Garcia in a WBC Super Welterweight World Title Eliminator that serves as the co-main event of the Gervonta Davis vs. Isaac Cruz SHOWTIME PPV on Sunday, December 5 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.

The pay-per-view will begin at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will also feature hard-hitting middleweight contenders Sergiy Derevyanchenko and Carlos Adames squaring off in a 10-round battle. Kicking off the pay-per-view, top featherweight contender Eduardo Ramirez faces former title challenger Miguel Marriaga for 10 rounds of action.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.

“This is a pay-per-view undercard that perfectly fits with what the main event between Gervonta Davis and Isaac Cruz will deliver – all action from start to finish,’’ said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “Sebastian Fundora, Sergio Garcia, Sergiy Derevyanchenko, Carlos Adames, Eduardo Ramirez and Miguel Marriaga are all hard-hitting boxers who come to fight and are looking for the knockout. Fans that purchase tickets to STAPLES Center or tune in to SHOWTIME PPV on Sunday, December 5 can expect explosive entertainment from start to finish.’’

Fundora (17-0-1, 12 KOs) continues to rise up the super welterweight ranks and recently delivered his most impressive victory to date by stopping Jorge Cota in four rounds in May. The six-foot-six brawler has reached this point by showing off the skills of a rugged boxer who is more comfortable fighting on the inside than most. Born in West Palm Beach, Fla. to his Mexican mother and Cuban father and trainer, Freddy – both boxers – the 23-year-old now lives and trains in Coachella, Calif.

“I’m super excited to be back in the ring,” said Fundora. “I haven’t stopped training since my fight against Cota and I’m always prepared for every opportunity that arises. I don’t know much about Garcia, but my promoter has told me for the past two years that he’s from Spain and he’s ranked number two in the WBC. So it only makes sense for me, being the number four-ranked fighter in the WBC, that we face each other. This is going to be an exciting fight on December 5.”

The 29-year-old Garcia (33-0, 14 KOs) will bring an edge in pro experience into his U.S. debut against Fundora on December 5. Fighting out of Torrelavega, Cantabria, Spain, Garcia has competed professionally since 2012. He ascended the rankings by traveling to the U.K. to defeat then unbeaten Ted Cheeseman on his home soil in 2019 and followed up with a triumph over veteran contender Sergey Rabchenko. Garcia has added three victories since then, including 2020 wins over Pablo Mendoza and Gregory Trenel.

“I want to thank my team for giving me this opportunity to show my boxing skills to the U.S. audience,” said Garcia. “I’m very excited to make the most of this chance that I have. After winning four European championships and other important titles, I feel that I’m ready to win a world title. I am only focused on Sebastian Fundora, but after this fight I want Jermell Charlo or Brian Castaño.”

A 2008 Olympian for his native Ukraine, Derevyanchenko (13-3, 10 KOs), will seek another opportunity at a middleweight world title. Known as “The Technician” and now training out of Brooklyn, Derevyanchenko is long established as a top middleweight contender, having faced the likes of Jermall Charlo, Daniel Jacobs and Gennadiy Golovkin. He owns victories over contenders including Tureano Johnson, Jack Culcay and Sam Soliman. .His most recent fight ended in a decision loss to Charlo in a SHOWTIME PPV headlining fight in September 2020.

“I’m excited to get back in the ring and continue my journey toward becoming world champion,” said Derevyanchenko. “Adames is a good fighter and I respect what he can do, but he’s standing in my way right now. I’m looking forward to this challenge and I can’t wait to give the fans another great fight.”

A native of Comendador, Dominican Republic, Adames (20-1, 16 KOs) fights out of New York City as he seeks to earn a second shot at a world championship. The 27-year-old defeated a slew of contenders including Frank Galarza, Joshua Conley, Alejandro Barrera and former Champion Carlos Molina on his way to a 2019 title shot that he lost by narrow decision to Patrick Teixeira. In his most recent outing, Adames scored a third-round TKO over Alexis Salazar on the Davis vs. Barrios SHOWTIME PPV undercard in June.

“I am very happy to return to action on December 5,” said Adames. “I’m having an excellent and very demanding training camp, so my opponent better be 100% ready. It’s very exciting to be on the undercard of this huge event. My fans expect a great performance from me and I’m going to deliver it.”

Fighting out of Sinaloa, Mexico, Ramirez (25-2-3, 12 KOs) has risen up the featherweight rankings with three-straight sensational knockout victories. He stopped then-unbeaten Leduan Barthelemy in November 2019 before blasting out Miguel Flores in December 2020 and most recently dropping Isaac Avelar in May. The 28-year-old is currently riding wins in five of his last six fights since losing to then 126-pound champion Lee Selby in 2017. He’s won 16 of his last 19 fights overall, with his only other blemishes coming in a draw against Barthelemy that was later avenged, and a decision loss to Claudio Marrero.

“I can’t wait to be back on another big card against another very good fighter in Miguel Marriaga,” said Ramirez. “He’s very strong and he has good experience against top fighters. Vasyl Lomachenko is the only one to stop him, but I will be the second because I need to make a statement with this fight and show everyone that I’m ready to fight for the title.”

A former world title challenger at 130 and 126 pounds, Marriaga (30-4, 26 KOs) most recently stopped Jorge Garcia Jimenez in April to make it victories in five of his last six outings since 2018. The 35-year-old fights out of Arjona, Colombia and has fought professionally since 2009. Marriaga went the distance in a pair of featherweight title fights against Oscar Valdez and Nicholas Walters, in addition to losing a super featherweight title fight to Vasyl Lomachenko.

“I am training very hard for this fight as I always do,” said Marriaga. “I’m very happy with my All-Star Boxing team for getting me this fight. Winning on December 5 will propel me to another world title fight. My only goal is to achieve my childhood dream of becoming a world champion and I’m not going to let this opportunity slip by me.”

Super welterweight contender Luis “Cuba” Arias will take on veteran Vaughn Alexander in a 10-round showdown that tops the non-televised undercard this Sunday, December 5 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.

The undercard will also feature undefeated prospects entering the ring as Baltimore’s Malik Warren (5-0, 5 KOs) takes on Eric Manriquez (7-12-1, 3 KOs) in a six-round super featherweight attraction, Washington, D.C.’s Jalil Hackett (2-0, 2 KOs) in a four-round welterweight showdown against Darynn Leyva (1-2-1, 1 KO), and heavyweight Carlos Garcon (2-0, 2 KOs) battling Jason Soto (3-1-1, 3 KOs) in a four-round duel.

A pair of female fights round out the lineup, as super flyweight contender Ava Knight (19-2-5, 5 KOs) faces New Orleans-native Indeya Smith (2-3-2, 1 KO) in an eight-round bout, and unbeaten prospect Mia Ellis (2-0, 2 KOs) competes in a four-round super featherweight contest against Elizabeth Tuani (1-4, 2 KOs).

Born in Milwaukee, Arias (19-2-1, 9 KOs) returned to the ring in June and earned a career-best victory in defeating former unified champion Jarrett Hurd on the Mayweather vs. Paul SHOWTIME PPV undercard. The 31-year-old has faced top competition throughout his career, including going the distance with former middleweight champion Daniel Jacobs in a 2017 duel. Arias racked up wins in his first 18 pro fights after turning pro in 2012 and the Mayweather Promotions’ fighter now trains in Las Vegas. He will be opposed by the St. Louis-native Alexander (15-6-1, 9 KOs), who most recently fought to a split-draw against Winfred Harris Jr. in August. The older brother of former two-division champion Devon, Alexander owns a victory over previously unbeaten Money Powell IV in 2019.

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Gervonta “Tank” Davis vs. Isaac Cruz final press conference quotes

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Gervonta "Tank" Davis vs. Isaac Cruz final press conference quotes | Boxen247.com (Kristian von Sponneck)

Gervonta "Tank" Davis vs. Isaac Cruz final press conference quotes | Boxen247.com (Kristian von Sponneck)Boxen247.com YouTube Channel

Gervonta Davis vs. Isaac Cruz

STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, USA – 5 December 2021

Five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis and hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz previewed their battle for Davis’ WBA Lightweight Title at a media workout Wednesday before they headline a SHOWTIME PPV this Sunday, December 5 from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.

(Photo credit: Esther Lin/SHOWTIME)

The workout also featured unbeaten super welterweight contender Sergio Garcia, who takes on rising star Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora in a WBC Super Welterweight World Title Eliminator that serves as the co-main event of the pay-per-view telecast beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from Wild Card Boxing in Los Angeles:

GERVONTA DAVIS

“The change in opponent didn’t affect much in my training. That’s just the sport of boxing. You have to be ready for anything. I always know that I have to adapt to whatever comes my way.

“Everyone says he’s going to come forward, but that’s easier said than done. If he does, we’ll give the fans an exciting fight. We know that’s his game plan. I just have to be smart, do what I do best, and put on a perfect performance.

“Just make sure you tune into this fight. This is going to be a good one. I’ve been training for 13 weeks for this, so I’m going to be ready and well prepared.

“It’s amazing to be fighting on Sunday. You have football during the day and boxing at night. I have a lot of young fans that watch me and I think this is going to be a great show.

“I’m excited to be in Los Angeles. I was made for this stage and I can’t wait to put on a great performance Sunday.

“Having a second child has matured me as a person and a fighter. I have two daughters to look after. I know I have to go out there and do my thing as a professional athlete, but I know the responsibility that also comes with being a father.”

ISAAC CRUZ

“We are extremely motivated for this fight. We have been training really hard and we’ve put in the maximum effort day after day. This Sunday, we’re going to be ready for the challenge.

“We have been preparing the best way that we can. We are going to fight smart. We’re going to stay within our style and then go forward with the best strategy to win the title.

“Gervonta is a great champion and if he said that I’m a tougher fight than Rolando Romero, then there is a reason for that. He knows that I’m a better fighter than Romero because he saw me fight in San Antonio. There is a reason for his comments.

“I’m here to do my job to win the fight, and whether it’s by decision or knockout I’m going to try to win no matter what.

“I am going to show everybody that Isaac Cruz is a true Mexican warrior and I’m going to show them what I’m worth with every punch I throw. They will see what I’m worth on Sunday, December 5.”

SERGIO GARCIA

“I’m just glad to have this kind of opportunity on a card of this magnitude. I plan to take advantage of it. We’ve worked so hard to get here, and I know I have to put up my best effort to make the most of this chance that I have.

“I came to win this fight and win the hearts of the fans. I’m not going to be running. I’m going to stand up strong, be aggressive, and show everyone that I’m for real. You’re going to be seeing me for a long time.

“Fundora is definitely an interesting opponent. It’s not common to see someone at his height in our division. I sparred with a lot of fighters who were his height and a lot heavier. That preparation is going to be to my advantage on fight night.

“The fanbases in the U.S. and in Europe are very different, but in the end, the ring is the same and we’re not going to be intimidated by fighting in a new country.

“I want people to know that I came here to fight my heart out and leave everything in the ring. Fans can count on a great show Sunday night.”

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Gervonta Davis faces Isaac Cruz this Saturday for WBA Lightweight Title

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Gervonta Davis faces Isaac Cruz this Saturday for WBA Lightweight Title | Boxen247.com (Kristian von Sponneck)

Gervonta Davis faces Isaac Cruz this Saturday for WBA Lightweight Title | Boxen247.com (Kristian von Sponneck)Boxen247.com YouTube Channel

Gervonta Davis vs. Isaac Cruz

Staples Center in Los Angeles, California, USA – 5 December 2021

Gervonta Davis and Isaac Cruz will meet on Sunday, December 5 for the World Boxing Association (WBA) lightweight title at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California.

“Tank” will return to the ring to defend his 135 lbs. crown against the Mexican in a bout that promises a lot of action and excitement due to both fighters’ styles and the records.

Davis is one of the most impressive fighters in the world and at 26 years of age has won titles in three weight classes, which speaks of his quality and projection. He captured the lightweight belt in December 2019 when he defeated Cuba’s Yuriorkis Gamboa by unanimous decision in Atlanta.

He defended that crown against Leo Santa Cruz in October 2020 with one of the most impressive knockouts of that year and now he will make the second defense. It is worth mentioning that Davis fought last June against Mario Barrios at super lightweight and will now return to the lightweight division.

Isaac Cruz, on the other hand, appeared as the best replacement option once Rolando Romero (mandatory challenger) could not take the fight due to different problems. Cruz is one of the best opponents available for Davis as he is ranked No. 8 and is on an impressive streak.

The 23-year-old “Pitbull” has made a name for himself in the United States with his recent performances. In October 2020 he knocked out Diego Magdaleno and in 2021 he beat Argentina’s Jose Matias Romero and compatriot Francisco Vargas.

The bout will be broadcast on Showtime and all pre-fight promotional activities will take place this week. Davis is undefeated in 25 fights, 24 won by knockout, and Cruz has 22 wins, 1 loss, 1 draw and 15 knockouts.

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Isaac Cruz training camp notes for Tank Davis fight on December 5

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Isaac Cruz training camp notes for Tank Davis fight on December 5 | Boxen247.com (Kristian von Sponneck)

Isaac Cruz training camp notes for Tank Davis fight on December 5 | Boxen247.com (Kristian von Sponneck)Boxen247.com YouTube Channel

Gervonta Davis vs. Isaac Cruz

STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, USA – 5 December 2021

Hard-hitting lightweight contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz has embraced the underdog role heading into his showdown against WBA Lightweight Champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis, which headlines a SHOWTIME PPV on Sunday, December 5, in a Premier Boxing Champions event from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.

“I have proven time and time again that my drive and desire to be champion is too big to be ignored,” said Cruz. “This fight won’t be the exception. I am going to pull off the upset, and a brand new star will be born on December 5.”

The 23-year-old Cruz has put together a 21-fight unbeaten streak heading into his first world title clash, including most recently defeating former champion Francisco Vargas by unanimous decision live on SHOWTIME in June. Now, as he prepares to face the fast-rising star Davis, Cruz brings the hunger of an underdog into every aspect of his training.

“My motivation to be at my very best for this fight is the biggest key for me day in and day out,” said Cruz. “This is the fight that I’ve always dreamed of. The work we do in the gym, the runs I go on, and the conditioning drills I push through are all fueled by my motivation to make the most of this opportunity.”

The Mexico City-native is the latest in his family’s deep history in the sport. He follows in the footsteps of his grandfather Memo, his father Isaac Sr., his uncles Eduardo and Guillermo, and his older brother Diego, who all fought professionally. Despite that familial pressure, Cruz was actually initially interested in the sport to keep himself on a positive path in life.

“Boxing was always in my blood, but my main motivation to get into boxing as a kid was steering myself away from bad role models and influences in my neighborhood,” said Cruz. “I was six years old when I decided to tag along to the gym one day with my grandpa, and I really liked it. A passion for the sport was born, and now it’s just a full-blown love story between boxing and I.”

In addition to his family, Cruz had heard from the legendary Mexican champion Julio César Chávez before securing the Davis fight. The conversation turned out to be prescient and added another motivating factor for Cruz heading into this fight.

“Chávez told me to make sure I’m always staying ready in case that fight with Gervonta was going to become a reality,” said Cruz. “Afterwards, he told me that I have the courage needed to defeat Gervonta. The fact that he said that to me speaks volumes about the strides I’ve made as a person and as a fighter.”

Cruz will be looking to take advantage of the strong contingent of Mexican and Mexican-American boxing fans in Los Angeles who will surely be in his corner on fight night against Davis. Cruz knows he can’t rely on it to help him in the ring despite that expected edge.

“I am so happy to be fighting in Los Angeles with all of the Mexican fans,” said Cruz. “But I have to remember that in the end, it’s just going to be me and Gervonta face-to-face in the ring. Of course, it motivates me that I’m going to feel right at home. But I just can’t let it distract me or trick me into becoming overconfident.

“Defeating Gervonta Davis is the only thing on my mind. When I win, I know he’s going to want the rematch, and I can promise that I will train twice as hard for that fight when it happens.”

The live event tickets, which are promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions, and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.

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Gervonta Davis vs. Isaac Cruz – virtual press conference quotes

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Gervonta Davis vs. Isaac Cruz - virtual press conference quotes | Boxen247.com (Kristian von Sponneck)

Gervonta Davis vs. Isaac Cruz - virtual press conference quotes | Boxen247.com (Kristian von Sponneck)Boxen247.com YouTube Channel

Gervonta Davis vs. Isaac Cruz

STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, USA 5/12/21

Unbeaten five-time world champion and boxing’s hottest attraction Gervonta “Tank” Davis and hard-hitting Isaac “Pitbull’’ Cruz previewed their showdown for Davis’ WBA Lightweight Championship during a virtual press conference Monday before they square off on Sunday, December 5 live on SHOWTIME PPV from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

Davis’ third-straight pay-per-view headlining attraction will see him take on the IBF-ranked No. 2 lightweight in Cruz, a Mexico City-native who has earned his ‘Pitbull’ moniker through his hard-nosed style.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions, and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Monday:

GERVONTA DAVIS

“I’m happy and excited to be in this position, I’ve been working hard getting ready for this new opponent. I know Cruz is going to come to fight. The fans are going to be the winners in this fight because we’re both coming in prepared to be at our best. I’m ready to put on a great show on December 5

“Anything can happen in boxing, so I just try to stay on task. I’m always ready to step up to any challenge thrown my way and get the job done.

“This is a more interesting fight now because we both come forward. This is going to be something great for the fans and another exciting night for the sport of boxing. May the best man win. We’re both coming with our ‘A’ games.

“He can say I haven’t faced someone like him, but he’s never fought anybody like me either. I can box and I can hit. We’ll see what he’s saying when he gets hit in the face.

“December 5 is going to be fireworks for sure. It’s going to be something you can’t miss. Don’t go get your popcorn or anything like that during this fight. This is another tough task, but this is what I’m made for.

“You always have to adapt in boxing. No matter what comes your way. I’m going to adapt to Cruz. I’m figuring out every day how Cruz is thinking and what he’s going to bring to the fight.

“Cruz has impressed me in his past fights. He comes in there to win. He doesn’t look to just hang in there. He wants to go in and take it. He’s not an opponent I can overlook. A win over him would be big for me.

“It is different training to fight a shorter opponent. I usually fight guys taller than me, so it’s an adjustment. It’s another thing I have to adapt to. Everything we’re doing is to figure him out.

“December 5 is going to be a fireworks show. This is going to be one of the best fights of the year. It’s not just a boxing match, it’s an event. Make sure you come out.

“I’m excited to be in this position. I’m grateful for it. I’m trying to continue to grow as a fighter and just improve each day.”

ISAAC CRUZ

“December 5 is going to be a great fight. I’m ready to shock the world and become the next star in the pantheon of Mexican boxing champions.

“I’m ready to put on a show on December 5 at STAPLES Center. There was a wide array of feelings when I knew I got this fight, but most of all, it made me really motivated to be ready for this opportunity.

“We are not overconfident in any way, but Gervonta has not fought anyone with my style and with my characteristics. We’re working really hard to make sure my style will work the best that it can on December 5.

“The real winner of this fight is going to be the fans. ‘Pitbull’ and ‘Tank’ are going to crash into each other and people will be on the edge of their seats.

“I can guarantee that I’m hungry and motivated to win this fight. I’m fighting for more than myself, I’m fighting for my family and to make my country proud. I know that if I win this fight, it will change my whole career.

“The key to defeating Gervonta is for me to want it more. I want that belt in my hand. It’s going to come down to determination.

“I’m always thankful for the opportunities I get. It’s my job to work hard and take advantage of each opportunity as I get them. I’m going to come forward and present my power. Once he feels my power, the fight is going to turn toward me.

“It’s up to Gervonta to show that he’s a superstar in the ring. I don’t see him as an impossible task to defeat at all.

“I always want to fight the best and Gervonta is one of the best. I’m training really hard so that I’m up to that challenge.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“This is an exciting matchup, with the most exciting fighter in the world, Gervonta Davis, taking on Isaac Cruz, who is a tough lightweight and a bonafide top-10 contender. He has an action-packed style himself and he’s looking to knock ‘Tank’ off his throne.

“Mexico is riding high off of Canelo Alvarez’s historic undisputed championship victory and now there’s a big opportunity for Cruz to stand up for his country and take ‘Tank’ out. I’ve had my eye on Cruz since he knocked out Diego Magdaleno on ‘Tank’s’ undercard last year. I was very impressed with the knockout and knew he might get this opportunity down the line.

“’Tank’ is always ready. He stays ready, so he doesn’t have to get ready. This fight is going to be nothing but fireworks on December 5 and it’s definitely ending in a knockout.

“Cruz is coming to fight. He’s not a last-minute replacement. He was already fighting on this card, so he’s going to be ready. ‘Tank’ is going to have to be on point for every second of this fight, because Cruz puts a lot of mental pressure on you with the way that he fights.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“This is going to be an incredible fight on December 5. Los Angeles has been a great boxing city going back over 100 years. Fighters from Mexico City come in with a ton of pride, courage and desire. They flat out don’t want to lose. Cruz is a certified Mexican warrior from Mexico City.

“STAPLES Center has a rich tradition of bringing the biggest and best fights to Los Angeles. With Gervonta Davis, you know there will be an incredible atmosphere in the arena. It’s going to be bombs away and you won’t want to miss it on December 5.”

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Gervonta Davis now faces Isaac Cruz on Dec. 5 after Romero pull out

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Gervonta Davis now faces Isaac Cruz on Dec. 5 after Romero pull out | Boxen247.com (Kristian von Sponneck)

Gervonta Davis now faces Isaac Cruz on Dec. 5 after Romero pull out | Boxen247.com (Kristian von Sponneck)

Gervonta Davis vs. Isaac Cruz

Staples Center in Los Angeles, USA 5/12/21

Gervonta Davis will fight Isaac Cruz on December 5 to defend his World Boxing Association (WBA) lightweight title. The bout will take place at the legendary Staples Center in Los Angeles and will put two great young lightweight fighters face to face.

Initially, Davis was scheduled to face Rolando Romero, but several problems with his opponent forced a change several weeks in advance and now “Pitbull” Cruz enters the game, a very interesting opponent who is very hungry to dethrone Gervonta.

The 26-year-old American is coming off a masterful performance at 140 pounds. Last June 26, he scored a technical knockout over Mario Barrios to be crowned in the division. Now he will return to the former division and the public expects to see more of him and his spectacular boxing.

Cruz is 23 years old, a tough, strong Mexican who fights with a lot of aggression. The Mexico City native has victories over good opponents such as Diego Magdaleno, Francisco “Bandido” Vargas, among others.

It will be a nice clash of styles and a great fight at 135 pounds. Gervonta is undefeated in 25 fights, 24 of them won by knockout, while Cruz has 22 wins, 1 loss, 1 draw and 15 knockouts.

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Cruz vs. Romero on The Undercard of Benavidez vs. Ellis March 13th

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Cruz vs. Romero on The Undercard of Benavidez vs. Ellis March 13th | Boxen247.com

Mexican lightweight contender, Isaac Cruz vs. Argentine Matias Romero, in the co-feature fight at the “Mohegan Sun Arena” in Uncasville, Connecticut.

Cruz (20-1-1, 15 KOs) returns to the ring after the most impressive performance of his career, knocking out tough Diego Magdaleno in the first round last October.

Originally from Mexico City, the 22-year-old is looking to get another major lightweight triumph to get closer to a world title shot.

Cruz turned pro in 2015 at the age of 16 and suffered his only loss a year later, but his aggressive style has kept him undefeated for the past five years.

“I am very excited to be fighting on SHOWTIME on March 13. The lightweight division is the most popular in boxing right now. This fight brings me one step closer to my dream of winning a world title.”

Romero (24-0, 8 KOs) will put his perfect record on the line as he tries to move up from prospect to contender with a win over Cruz.

In his most recent fight last November, Romero defeated Javier José Clavero by unanimous decision.

“I have come from Argentina to get one step closer to my goal of being world champion. I know Isaac Cruz is a great puncher, but he has never fought anyone with my speed and heart.”

In the main event on the same card, former super middleweight champion David ‘Red Flag’ Benavidez will return against American Ronald Ellis in a WBC elimination match.

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Isaac Cruz vs. Jose Matias Romero in WBA Title Eliminator This Saturday

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Isaac Cruz vs. Jose Matias Romero in WBA Title Eliminator This Saturday | Boxen247.com

Lightweight prospects Mexican Isaac Cruz and Argentinean Jose Matias Romero will meet this Saturday in a eliminator fight for the World Boxing Association (WBA) lightweight title. The bout will take place at the Mohegan Sun Casino, in Connecticut, and will be part of the event where David Benavidez and Rashad Ellis will be the main fight.

Cruz and Romero are two young and highly rated fighters. The former has been the talk of the town thanks to his performances in his recent fights, especially the KO of Diego Magdeleno in October last year.

The 22-year-old “Pitbull” is one of the rising 135-pound fighters with power, courage and a respectable punch. He is currently rated fourth in the WBA rankings and has stated that he wants to continue to move up to fight the big names in the division and seek the world title.

For his part, Romero, who is 24 years old and a good fighter, will have his first fight in the United States. The Neuquen native is ranked sixth in the pioneer organization’s rankings and is looking to get closer to a title shot.

Both will step on the scales on Friday and will be ready for the eliminator bout on Saturday. Cruz has a record of 20 wins, 1 loss, 1 draw, and 15 KOs, while Romero has 24 wins, no losses, and 8 KOs.

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Tank Runs Over Santa Cruz & Fight Card Results From San Antonio

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Tank Runs Over Santa Cruz & Results San Antonio | boxen247.com

Gervonta “Tank” Davis (24-0, 23 KO’s) W KO 6 Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz (37-2-1, 19 KO’s)

(WBA super featherweight and WBA lightweight championships)

Fight Notes: Tank laid out Santa Cruz with a left uppercut. Time of the stoppage was 2:40

Mario “El Azteca” Barrios (26-0, 17 KO’s) W TKO 6 Ryan “Cowboy” Karl (18-3, 11 KO’s)

(WBA super lightweight champion)

Fight Notes: There were two knockdowns in round six with Barrios retaining his title.

Regis “Rougarou” Prograis (25-1, 21 KO’s) W TKO 3 Juan Heraldez (16-1-1, 10 KO’s)

Fight Notes: Two knockdowns in round three. Waved off after the second knockdown.

Isaac Cruz (20-1-1, 15 KO’s) W TKO 1 Diego Magdaleno (32-4, 13 KO’s)

(IBF title eliminator)

Fight Notes: Bout made at lightweight.

Venue: The Alamodome, San Antonio, Texas.
Promoter: Mayweather Promotions.
TV: Showtime PPV.

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Gervonta Davis & Leo Santa Cruz Make Weight – Full Fight Card Weights From San Antonio

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Davis & Santa Cruz Fight Card Weights From Texas | boxen247.com

Gervonta Davis 129.8 vs Leo Santa Cruz 129.6
(WBA super featherweight/WBA lightweight titles)

Mario Barrios 139.6 vs Ryan Karl 140
(WBA super lightweight title)

Regis Prograis 141.6 vs Juan Heraldez 139.6
Isaac Cruz 132 vs Diego Magdaleno 134.8
(IBF lightweight title eliminator)

Weigh-In Notes: Davis opted to weigh-in with a towel, weight was no issue.

Venue: The Alamodome, San Antonio, Texas.
Promoter: Mayweather Promotions.
TV: Showtime PPV.

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Davis vs Santa Cruz Full Fight Card Final Press Conference

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Davis vs Santa Cruz Card Final Press Conference | boxen247.com

GERVONTA DAVIS

“My team and I decided to move our camp to Las Vegas so we could have a perfect camp. We spent 15 weeks in training, so I’m well prepared. Hopefully Leo is well prepared and we give the fans what they want to see.

“We know Leo is going to come with a lot of punches and I’m going to be explosive. It’s all about giving fans a treat. I’m grateful to be in this position and I’m ready. Saturday night is going to be a memorable night.

“Not to take anything from him, Yuriorkis Gamboa was just trying to survive against me. It’s harder to get punches off when someone isn’t trying to bring the fight. I know Leo is going to come to fight. I think this performance is going to put me up to the next level.

“I don’t think I have to knock him out, I just have to go out there and be great. Forget everything else, I just have to go out there and show everyone that I’m the top guy in the boxing world. That’s my main goal.

“Michael Jordan used to read the paper and do what they said he couldn’t do. That’s what I’m doing. I have to prove that I’m the baddest man in the sport on Saturday night.

“Leo is going to come to fight and it’s just about me stepping up and doing what I do best. You can see the potential in a fighter from the outside, but you have to see it actually come out in a fight to believe it. That’s the position I’m in. Everyone knows I’m great, I just have to show it.

“Leo has shown that he’s a top tier fighter, and he’s going up against an explosive, powerful fighter like myself. I think the winner should be in the top 10 of the pound-for-pound list.

“Floyd Mayweather has just told me to stay focused despite everything that comes with pay-per-view week. I have to get the job done first, but also do everything that comes with being the next pay-per-view star.

“I’m one of those fighters that knows how to focus when I have something big in front of me. None of the great fighters before me have frozen up when it’s crunch time. I’ve always been able to focus when big things are on the line. That’s what I did for this training camp.

“I’m not really focused on anyone who isn’t Leo Santa Cruz. I can’t overlook Leo. As far as any other fighter out there, they just don’t matter to me right now. I’ll prove it along the way. This is one step closer to proving the point I want to prove.”

LEO SANTA CRUZ

“This is what I’ve always dreamed of. When I was a little boy, I wanted to be on this stage. I’m living that dream and I’m very happy and excited. I never thought I’d accomplish it. I thought it was like winning the lottery. But thanks to the fans, I’m here where I’m at.

“I’m facing the best fighter in the division. If you want to be the best, you have to beat the best. I have to go against the best fighter. I wanted to challenge myself. I know this is a dangerous fight for me, but I want to test myself.

“We’ve both suffered and been through a lot to get here. Neither of us wants to go back to where we started. So I know we’re both going to give a great fight to the fans.

“I have the heart of a Mexican warrior. My dad has told me to fight a smart fight, but even though he’s going to say that, there’s a good chance I end up brawling with him at times. No matter what, we’re going to find a way to beat him.

“I don’t really worry about being the underdog. Everyone has their opinion. It’s my job to go out there and prove the doubters wrong. I trained hard to go out there and do that Saturday.

“Gervonta is the best opponent I’ve faced. He’s the strongest fighter I’ll have faced. The Abner Mares and Carl Frampton fights were great experience for this kind of fight. I learned a lot from those four fights and since then I’ve learned a lot more.

“It would mean the world to me to become a five-division champion. It would be another dream come true. I would put the Santa Cruz last name right up there with the best.

“Gervonta is a big guy and I know he’s going to come hit hard. But I’ve trained with bigger guys all camp and I’ve been able to take everything thrown at me.

“The fans want you to go and make it a back and forth war. I know against Gervonta I have to fight smart. I’m going to just try as hard as I can to listen to my father’s advice.

“I definitely took this fight to quiet the critics. People said I didn’t want to fight the big names. So I went after the biggest challenge in the division and that’s Gervonta Davis.

“I leave the opinions to the fans and media. My job is to get the win and give the fans a great fight. I’m going to give it my best and leave it all in the ring.”

CALVIN FORD, Davis’ Trainer

“Camp has been great. It was unbelievable. I really appreciate the work that he put in. I can’t wait to see Tank in the ring. I’m looking forward to great performances from both fighters.

“’Tank’ accomplished a lot of things that I’ve asked him to do, but this is the pinnacle of them all right here. Both of these families have walked the same line with different trails. They both have a chance to become greats with this win.

“Every time I look at ‘Tank’ now, I flash back to those younger years in the gym with him as a child. Now he’s the man I’ve always looked at him to be. He’s a family man, business man and a wonderful fighter. It’s amazing to see one of my boys all grown up.”

JOSÉ SANTA CRUZ, Santa Cruz’s Father and Trainer

“We had a really good training camp and understand the importance of this fight. Leo is fully prepared for this fight on Saturday and I expect him to have a great performance.

“I’m very thankful to be here. I’m so happy to be here with my son for such a big fight and be able to guide him and help him accomplish his dream.

“We know that Davis is a very strong and accomplished fighter. But Leo has just used it to motivate him in the gym every day and you’ll be able to see that on Saturday.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President, Sports and Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc.

“One of the biggest reasons I love boxing is because we get to witness young men, like ‘Tank’ Davis and Leo Santa Cruz, develop and mature right in front of our eyes. This is our ninth fight with ‘Tank’ and 13th with Leo. We have seen them mature as fighters and we have seen them mature as young men. We’ve seen them struggle, sweat, and triumph. We’ve seen them become fathers.”

“I remember the first time I met ‘Tank’, it was April 2016 in Washington, D.C. He was on the non-televised undercard of an Adrien Broner fight. He had already fought, he came over during the telecast and Floyd introduced him. I remember his very words, ‘This is my young fighter. Watch out for this kid.’ And we’ve been watching ever since.

“I remember the first time I met Leo was in June 2012. Shortly before his first world title fight. He was a very humble, quiet, soft spoken, almost shy young men. Very different from the guy that I saw in the ring about 48 hours after that. The point is, we’ve been along for the journey of these young men.

“They have been battling the odds, literally since birth. We were lucky enough to spend time with them during ALL ACCESS. They opened their hearts, their minds, and themselves to share their stories. The thing I’ve heard most is that the difficulty about this fight is not whether people want to watch it or whether they’re going to buy it, it’s who they’re going to root for. Because if you know these young men’s stories, what they’ve gone through, and what they’ve experienced, it is incredible.

“The bottom line is in these two young men we have two of the most accomplished and popular young fighters in the sport today. Leo has been a champion almost consistently since 2012. ‘Tank’ had sellouts or near sellouts in Los Angeles, Baltimore and Atlanta, just last year. We have got these two accomplished young men fighting on Saturday night. You have to respect their journey, where they come from, and respect the teams that come around him.

“We do know what’s going to happen on Saturday night. Leo is going to come into the ring, throw a lot of punches and show an activity rate that’s unlike just about anybody else in the sport. ‘Tank’ is going to show the power, speed, and the athleticism that has made him one of the fastest rising young stars that we’ve seen in sport in some time. Beyond that, it will be up to them, just like it’s been up to them for their entire lives.”

Fighters competing on the Gervonta Davis vs. Leo Santa Cruz Showtime PPV undercard previewed their respective matchups at a final press conference Wednesday before they square off this Saturday, October 31 from Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.

The press conference featured unbeaten San Antonio native and WBA super lightweight champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios and challenger Ryan “Cowboy” Karl, who meet in the co-main event, plus former super lightweight world champion Regis “Rougarou” Prograis and unbeaten contender Juan Heraldez, who square off in in a 10-round showdown, and lightweight contenders Isaac Cruz and Diego Magdaleno, who battle in an IBF title eliminator to kick off the pay-per-view.

MARIO BARRIOS

“I’m super excited to be back home for my first title defense. Come Saturday night, it’s going to be an explosive night of boxing throughout this whole card. I’m trying to steal the show in the co-main event.

“I don’t feel any pressure. I’m fighting at home and defending my title, so it’s just a dream come true. You have an Aztec warrior and a Texas cowboy going at it. I couldn’t imagine a better co-main event.

“We had another great camp with Virgil Hunter in California. I’m excited to continue to show everyone why I’m the best in my division.

“Ryan definitely comes to fight. He’s known for being a pressure fighter. I’ve always considered myself a boxer-puncher. I’ll try to use my jab and fight from the outside as much as I can. But I’ve been known to brawl on the inside as well. It’s going to end up being a fan-friendly fight.

“I’m a complete fighter. I have the speed and power. I also have height and length. I carry my power throughout twelve rounds. I’m a dangerous fighter from the opening bell until the very end.

“You’re going to see a completely different fighter on Saturday night. My last fight I showed the warrior that I am, and during the championship rounds, I made big things happen. Saturday night, I’m going to show everyone how I’ve improved.”

RYAN KARL

“You’re going to see a great fight on Saturday. We are going to steal the show, because I’ve come prepared. I’m at my very best and it’s going to make me victorious. We put the work in. I’m going to seize this opportunity now that I have it.

“I’m not worried about getting a knockout. I just have to be victorious and become champion. Nothing else matters.

“I’m healthy and injury free now. It’s been over two years since I could say that. It’s a new start in a way. I’m listening better and my corner is the best it’s ever been. I expect it to be a very explosive and exciting fight.

“I’ve known Barrios since the amateurs, but it never crossed my mind that we’d fight because he was much smaller than me then. He’s matured and gotten a lot bigger now, so I’m anticipating he’ll bring the fight to me on Saturday.

“I come to fight, I’m rough and ready and I’m coming to win any way possible. It doesn’t matter to me. I’ve never been in a boring fight. Win, lose or draw, you’ll always get your money’s worth.”

REGIS PROGRAIS

“I’m excited to be here. Training has been amazing. I just want to go out there and prove that I’m still the best at 140 pounds. I was number one for a long time. This is the first step toward getting my belts back. I’ve been training differently than ever before. I’m really living like a fighter right now. I just have to go out and do what I know I have to do.

“I need a stoppage or a shutout. That’s what I’m looking for. He’s an okay fighter. I don’t want to degrade him too much, because I just feel like I’m the better fighter.

“This is my first step toward proving I’m still the best. You sit and go over the fight a million times in your head and it usually never goes that way. I’m just going to do me and show the world that I’m still here. I train too hard not to be number one. I don’t want to be behind anybody.

“We’re all going to do our thing Saturday night. It’s a huge stacked card. Order SHOWTIME PPV and watch me mess Heraldez up.

“I’m just taking it one fight at a time right now. The landscape in boxing changes all the time. I’m not worried about anything else other than Juan Heraldez.”

JUAN HERALDEZ

“I’m going to go out there and show everyone what the sweet science is all about. It’s about hitting and not getting hit. That’s my game plan.

“I believe that my style is exactly what boxing is all about. I have more advantages in my game than he does. I’m going to make sure that everyone sees it on Saturday night.

“Prograis had his chance to be elite, now it’s my time. He fought Taylor and lost. I didn’t really even watch more than a couple of rounds of that fight though, because I’m a completely different fighter than him.

“Prograis is a step up on paper, but all that goes out the window once we’re in the ring. It’s about boxing skills and toughness. I’ve been boxing all my life, so I don’t think I’m stepping up to him.

“I can box and I can punch. There’s not going to be anything else that needs to be said or done. This fight is going to prove to everyone that I have great boxing skills. It’s going to put me in a position to earn respect, win belts and make more money.

“I don’t think he’s going to be able to land clean shots on me because of my defense. You’ll have to ask him afterwards how hard I punch. I know his eye was really swollen after his last fight. Plan on seeing him look the same on Saturday.”

ISAAC CRUZ

“I’m very happy to be here in San Antonio. I’ve been doing a lot of sparring for this fight, especially against southpaws. I’ve sparred over 200 rounds so I will be at my very best on Saturday night.

“I came to fight, I came to steal the show, and I came for the victory. I don’t need to talk too much. I can talk with my fists on Saturday.

“I’m very prepared to give Diego Magdaleno a great fight. I’m a classic Mexican fighter who keeps coming forward. I throw a lot of punches and I don’t break down after the early rounds. I love to give a good show.

“I’m facing a good fighter with a lot of experience. He’s had a lot of tough fights, but we came very well prepared to take the victory with us.

“After this fight, people will not be able to forget my name. I’m ready to keep giving more and more in the future.”

DIEGO MAGDALENO

“I’ve fought in Texas so many times and I love fighting in front of these real fight fans. This started back in February when I kicked off 2020 with a roar. I was one of the last fights with a crowd, and now I’m back here with a crowd again. I’m relishing in the energy of this event.

“It’s my birthday and I’ve never felt this great. The whole world is right in front of me and I just have to go out and grab it.

“I’m bringing something huge on Saturday. You’ve never seen Diego on this much ‘fuego’ before. I never stopped believing in myself and that’s why I’m here today.

“I know I have to stay focused and stick to the game plan. I’m going to be true to myself. I have to be smart and everything else will be taken care of.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“Since we first started Mayweather Promotions we’ve promoted over 20 pay-per-view fights, and I have to say that from top to bottom, this is one of the most stacked undercards we’ve had. That will bring nothing but excitement for the fans come Saturday.

“The opening fight is an outstanding lightweight fight with Isaac Cruz taking on the always exciting Diego Magdaleno in a title eliminator in one of boxing’s hottest divisions.

“Then we roll into former world champion Regis Prograis, who is always in entertaining bouts, taking on Mayweather Promotions’ own unbeaten Juan Heraldez. These guys have gone back and forth during the promotion. Heraldez has told me he thinks Regis is an average fighter, and Regis has talked his trash too. They get to settle it on Saturday night. This has the potential to steal the show.

“The co-main event is an all-Texas showdown with Mario Barrios against Ryan Karl. This will definitely be an exciting bout. They both have highly respected trainers in Virgil Hunter and Ronnie Shields. So you know they will be extremely well prepared. From top to bottom we have a very entertaining undercard, so make sure to tune-in Saturday night.”

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Gervonta Davis vs Leo Santa Cruz Undercard Fighters Speak

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Tank Davis vs Leo Santa Cruz Undercard Fighters Speak | boxen247.com

The Gervonta Davis vs Leo Santa Cruz Showtime PPV undercard fighters on the October 31st previewed their respective bouts during their press conference.

Mario Barrios: “I’m super amped for this type of fight. Ryan and I have known each other forever and we know the style that the other person will bring to the ring. For the fans at Alamodome and watching on pay-per-view, they’re in for a great fight.

“I couldn’t be happier to be in one of the first fights with a crowd since the pandemic. Having my first defense be in my hometown of San Antonio is huge. The feedback I’ve been getting so far from my fans has been incredible. Onfight night that we’ll both have our fan bases there for an exceptional night of boxing.

“I know that come fight night I’ll be facing the best version of Ryan Karl that we’ve seen. He’s training the same way and expecting that from me. So it’s going to be an action-packed fight and the fans will not be disappointed.

“I don’t feel any pressure fighting at home. Every time I fight at home, the energy has been unreal. If anything, it’s more motivating.

“We’ve watched my fight against Batyr Akhmedov a couple times. I’m a warrior and I showed that in the fight. We made all the changes we needed to in this camp and I’m going to show them on October 31.

“I’m very proud of the Akhmedov fight. Every great fighter has had close fights like that. It was a learning experience.

“I know the route that Karl has had throughout his career and I know he’s taking this opportunity and coming 100% ready. I’m planning to keep the world title in San Antonio, so it’s going to be a great battle.”

Ryan Karl: “This fight is going to be a big deal. It’s really surreal, to an extent. We’re very excited and working really hard and putting in the work. It couldn’t be better that it is taking place in Texas with fans. It’s going to be a big Texas showdown.

“I’ve definitely evolved as a fighter. I’ve trained harder than I ever have before. Ronnie [Shields] has talked to me about staying calm and getting ready for the moment and what it means to be in a world title fight. It’s about just staying focused and handling business. We have to remember we are there for business and nothing else. This is no pleasure but all work, no play. And he’s keeping me focused on those things and getting me in the best shape of my life.

“I’ve known Mario forever so as far as knowing each other and styles, we’re familiar. But we’ve never been in the ring with each other so we are really just guessing what we are going to do in there. As far as how we’ll come out and fight, we really won’t know until we are in there with each other.

“I expect it to be a fan-friendly fight. A true Texas fight. As far as how it’s going to play out, I really don’t know. People make adjustments in the ring. I expect us both to come to win and do so at all costs and just make it a very, very fan-friendly fight.

“I don’t really feel any pressure for this fight at all. It really doesn’t make any difference to me that we are fighting in San Antonio, or not. It’s nice to be fighting in Texas because I’m a Texan and I’d like to fight here and never have to leave. But I don’t feel any pressure at all. I’ll fight anybody, anywhere. There’s nobody else in the ring but me and him so it doesn’t really matter in the end.”

Regis Prograis: “I’m very excited for my first fight as part of the PBC stable. I’ve been wanting to come over to this side for a long time and it’s finally happening. When something bad happens, something good usually happens off of that so this is perfect. I’m in Katy, Texas, which is a two-hour drive from San Antonio, is a big fight town. Plus, this is the first fight back where we’re having fans. Everything is working out perfectly and I’m so excited to be on such a big card and to get back in the ring.

“I still feel like I’m the best in the world at 140 pounds. In the Josh Taylor fight, I went over there to England, fought in front of over 20,000 people who were all against me and I still feel like I won the fight. I won’t say they robbed me because that’s not what happened, but I still feel like I won the fight. I feel like I’m the best in the division and I need to keep proving it. This is another step for me.

“My next move depends on what’s offered to me. But first off, I have a tough fight in front of me. I’m focused on Juan Heraldez. There are a lot of things on the table for me after this, but I have to get past him first. I do yearn to be a champion at 140 pounds again before I move up to welterweight. That is the plan. But the landscape of boxing changes so much that it’s so hard to predict. You never know what’s going to happen.

“There are a lot of people out there right now for me to fight. Adrien Broner, Josh Taylor, Jose Ramirez. Me and Josh Taylor are definitely going to fight each other again. No matter what, we have to fight. The fight was too close and it was too much of a big deal out there in the U.K. for that not to happen again. I definitely want to fight Ramirez. I feel like he’s ducked me for a little while. And the Broner fight could definitely be a huge fight. All of those names are who I’m looking for. But it’s one step at a time and it’s Juan Heraldez next.

“The Taylor fight definitely showed me that there are things I need to improve on. Going into that fight, I questioned myself if I could fight 12 hard rounds. I had only gone 12 rounds against Terry Flanagan but that was a boxing lesson, not 12 hard rounds. I fought 12 hard, hard rounds against Taylor so it was kind of a question in my head before that. Now I know that I can do it. Josh Taylor is a very big puncher and I took his punches like it was nothing. As far as things I need to work on, I guess we’ll see. But I’ve been working really hard and I’ve been in training camp since before the pandemic started. I had a lot of fights that didn’t happen so I’ve been working that whole time, working on different things and busting my ass. I’m going to do whatever it takes to get to the top spot at 140 pounds.”

Juan Heraldez: “In my last fight against Argenis Mendez I learned that I have to really control of the fight. I can’t let there be 50-50 rounds and leave it in the judges’ hands. I have to take as much control as I can over the fight.

“On paper Prograis has a good resume, but when it comes to skills in the ring, it’s a totally different thing. People can say what they want, but skills pay the bills.

“I’ve only watched a couple of rounds against Josh Taylor because that was a fight against a southpaw. I don’t think I can take much from that. I’m a totally different fighter.

“I just believe in my skills and ability. Whether it’s my footwork, speed or overall ability, I don’t believe that he does anything better than me. He had his time at the top of the division, but now it’s my time. It’s my time to shine.

“After this fight I think the whole division is going to fear me. I think it’s going to be hard to find me a fight after I’m through with Regis.”

Isaac Cruz: “[Magdaleno] is definitely a good fighter and has a lot of experience, but me and my team are ready to take advantage of the experience we have and to use it for our purposes to be able to prevail in this fight.

“The fact that this will be the first big fight with fans in the stands in the United States just fills me with happiness. It motivates me even more to do my best at the Alamodome on October 31.

“The Mexican fans know what I’m all about. We will now head over to the United States and show the American fans what Isaac Cruz is capable of. I know I can be a contender with the likes of Gervonta Davis, Ryan Garcia and [Vasiliy] Lomachenko and show people that there is another Mexican fighter that can be a contender and make noise in this division.

“I’m prepared for his experience. It’s going to be a great fight from the start, but as the rounds go on, he will start to realize the fighter I am and the power that I’m capable of.”

Diego Magdaleno: “This is my second fight with my trainer, Bones Adams. It’s a family affair. Boxing is family to me. Going into every fight, being a mature old man that they are calling me nowadays, it feels good because I know where my priorities are. My last win over Austin Dulay was huge because my last team that I had was pretty much saying that I was old, that I was washed up and done. I didn’t like that idea. I went back and rejuvenated my whole team. Rejuvenation over here is Bones Adams.

“You’re never too old to get better and we’re here to serve beatdowns to the young guys. My last opponent was 24 years old coming over to face an old man, and I proved the world wrong. Now everybody is believing again in ‘2FUEGO’. I’m going to start this show off with some fire. They have me opening the show on a stacked card and I’m going to get in there and give it my all.

“I’m surrounded by people who want me to progress. If I believe in myself, I want my team to believe in me and I felt that my old team didn’t believe in me. That’s why you saw what happened in that Teofimo Lopez fight. I’ve learned from my mistakes and moving forward I have positive gym vibes. I have a great coach who has been in the ring with me and knows me personally. I definitely made a huge change and look what I did against Dulay, a guy with vicious knockout power. Numbers and strategies can say one thing, but at the end of the day, when we get in the ring, it’s up to me to prove everyone wrong like I did in my last fight.

“I will be the first fight back with a crowd and I think that favors me. I fight off other people’s energy and you guys will all see that on October 31.”

Venue: The Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.

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