Tag: Adrien Broner

MANNY PACQUIAO DEFENDS WBA WELTERWEIGHT WORLD TITLE WITH UNANIMOUS DECISION OVER ADRIEN BRONER

MANNY PACQUIAO DEFENDS WBA WELTERWEIGHT WORLD TITLE WITH UNANIMOUS DECISION OVER ADRIEN BRONER ON SHOWTIME PPV® FROM THE MGM GRAND GARDEN ARENA IN LAS VEGAS

Photo Credits- Esther Lin/SHOWTIME

Marcus Browne Wins WBA Light Heavyweight Title With Unanimous Decision Over Bloodied Badou Jack; Nordine Ouballi Captures Vacant WBC Bantamweight World Title With Unanimous Over Rau’shee Warren

Pacquiao vs. Broner Main Event To Air Saturday, January 26 At 9 p.m. ET/PT Followed Later That Evening By ALL ACCESS: PACQUIAO VS. BRONER EPILOGUE

LAS VEGAS (Jan. 19, 2019) – All-time great Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao cruised to a comfortable unanimous decision over Adrien “The Problem” Broner to defend his WBA Welterweight World Championship on SHOWTIME PPV® Saturday night in front of a sold-out MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. The scores were 117-111, 116-112 twice.

The global icon and boxing’s only eight-division champion Pacquaio – who was fighting for the first time as a 40-year-old, and the first time in the United State in more than two years – used effective jabs and sustained body work in his 70th professional fight that was watched by an announced attendance of 13,025 fans, including the retired Floyd Mayweather.

“I proved in my last fight against [Lucas] Matthysse and now I proved it again: The Manny Pacquiao journey will still continue,” Pacquiao said.

Asked by SHOWTIME’s Jim Gray if he would like to rematch Mayweather in the future, Pacquiao said he’d do it if Mayweather unretired.

“Tell him to come back to the ring and we will fight,” Pacquaio said. “I’m willing to fight Floyd Mayweather again if he’s willing to come back to boxing.”

SHOWTIME Sports official scorer Steve Farhood scored the fight 118-110 in favor of the Filipino Pacquiao (61-7-2, 39 KOs), giving Cincinnati’s Broner (33-3-1, 24 KOs) only the fourth and the 10th rounds.

Broner said he thought he did enough to win the fight. “I beat him,” he said. “Everybody out there knows I beat him. I controlled the fight, he was missing. I hit him clean more times. I beat him.”

Pacquiao maintained a strong pace throughout the fight, throwing 47 punches per round compared to Broner, who averaged almost half that output. Broner was limited to single-digit total connects in every round while Pacquiao exceeded double-digits five times.

“I wanted to push more but my trainer said don’t be careless,” Pacquiao said. “Wait for him, counter, and that’s what I did.”

In the co-feature, Staten Island native Marcus Browne (23-0, 16 KOs) won defeated a bloodied Badou Jack (22-2-3, 13 KOs) by upset unanimous decision for the Interim WBA Light Heavyweight belt. The scores were 119-108, 117-110, 116-111.

Jack suffered a gruesome five-inch cut to his forehead after an accidental clash of heads in the seventh round of the fight. The former Olympian Browne told Gray the head butt did not affect the outcome of the fight.

“He couldn’t find me before that [head butt],” said the 28-year-old Browne, who made his professional debut on ShoBox: The New Generation following the 2012 Olympics. “He couldn’t find me. I was just too sharp, too slick, too anything. He was coming with his head all night. He kept coming with his head.”

The Las Vegas resident and former two-division champion Jack was taken immediately to the hospital for observation. Jack, who was fighting in his seventh consecutive world title fight, gave all the credit to Browne. “I was flat,” he said. “I don’t know what it was, but no excuses. I would love the rematch. Now I have to rest, get the head fixed and hopefully get that chance in the future.”

Browne was the more active fighter, throwing 515 total punches to 303 for Jack. Browne connected on 103 of his power punches compared to just 58 for Jack.

The taller, southpaw Browne said he stuck to his game-plan and peppered Jack continuously with his strong straight left jab. “He thought he was going to take me to deep water and drown me, but I was in shape,” he said. “Teddy Atlas, you think you have the best light heavyweight? (Oleksandr) Gvozdyk, let’s go.

“I just used my athletic ability and did what I do best, and that’s box the hell out of people.”

In a rematch of their close 2012 Olympic showdown, France’s Nordine Oubaali (15-0, 11 KOs) captured the vacant WBC Bantamweight World Title with a unanimous decision against Cincinnati’s Rau’shee Warren (16-3, 4 KOs). The scores were 117-111, 116-112, 115-113.

“This was my dream,” said Oubaali, who was making his U.S. debut. “I made my dream come true, my American dream. I want to thank all the people of America and France who supported me.”

By winning the all-southpaw matchup, the 32-year-old Oubaali became the first French-born champion in 11 years.

The first six rounds were close as both fighters were separated by four or fewer punches. Oubaali controlled the fight in the middle rounds, with SHOWTIME’s official scorer Steve Farhood giving the more active Oubaali rounds five through 10 before giving Warren the close 11th.

023_rau'shee_warren_vs_nordine_oubaali pac bronerundercard credit esther lin showtime

“I felt like I was doing pretty good in the beginning of the fight but after the fifth or sixth I let off the gas,” said Warren, a former world champion. “I was using my jab and wanted to finish it with my left hand. The judges saw it the way it was. He wanted it more. You could tell. He had his foot on the gas.”

The seventh round was the most action-packed of the fight with Oubaali going on the attack and hurting Warren by landing effective combinations. Oubaali pulled away in the final six rounds as he out-landed Warren 100-51 in total punches and was the effective aggressor and the more active fighter.

Following the ninth round, Warren’s trainer Barry Hunter could be heard telling Warren he needed each of the final three rounds if he was going to win the fight.

“I put on the pressure,” Oubaali said. “I had the speed. He is a very good boxer – he’s slick, and he’s smart. This is a very big night to win my first world championship.”

In the telecast opener, Hugo Ruiz (39-4, 32 KOs) was successful in his featherweight debut as he dominated late replacement Alberto Guevara (27-4, 12 KOs), knocking him down once in the opening minute of the fight and winning easily on all three judges’ scorecards 100-89, 99-90 twice.

ruiz guevara pac bronerundercard credit esther lin showtime

The fast starting Ruiz, who has 18 previous knockouts in round one, showed his early power and he sent the former two-time world title challenger Guevara to the canvas with a strong right followed by a left uppercut at 1:41 of the first round.

“It was hard for me training for a southpaw and then getting a new opponent I knew nothing about,” said the 30-year-old Ruiz, from Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico, who is a former world champion at 122 pounds. “The other guy was a puncher and this guy is a boxer. It’s tough to fight a guy who is just trying to survive out there and running. He came in and got caught early, and that set the pace for the rest of the fight.”

Mexico’s Guevara was fighting on just one days’ notice after Jhack Tepora failed to make the 126-pound weight limit on Friday.

“It was supposed to be a title fight,” Ruiz said. “I was so disappointed and my mind wasn’t totally in it.”

Official Weights & Photos for Tomorrow Night’s SHOWTIME PPV Event – Manny Pacquiao vs. Adrien Broner

Click Here For pac broner bout sheet  

Photo Credits- Scott Hirano/SHOWTIME

Manny Pacquiao V. Adrien Broner

 

Badou Jack V. Marcus Browne

Rau’Shee Warren V. Nordine Oubaali

MANNY PACQUIAO VS. ADRIEN BRONER FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

MANNY PACQUIAO VS. ADRIEN BRONER FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

 Photo Credits-Esther Lin/SHOWTIME

 

“I have something to prove to everyone,” – Pacquiao

“I didn’t come here to lose or lay down. I came here
to get this victory,” – Broner

Welterweight Champion Pacquiao Takes on Former Four-Division World Champion Broner This Saturday on SHOWTIME PPV® From the MGM Grand Garden Arena In Las Vegas &  Presented by Premier Boxing Champions

pac broner credit esther lin showtime broner final press conf quotes photos5

LAS VEGAS (January 16, 2019) – Boxing’s only eight-division world champion Manny Pacquiao and former four-division world champion Adrien “The Problem” Broner went face-to-face Wednesday in Las Vegas at the final press conference before they battle for Pacquiao’s World Boxing Association Welterweight World Title Saturday, January 19 in the main event of a SHOWTIME PPV® event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena.

Pacquiao will be ending his two-year hiatus from a U.S. boxing ring to defend his title against the brash must-see attraction Broner. On Wednesday the fighters talked about their preparation and what they envision going down on Saturday night before staring each other down at the Copperfield Theatre at MGM Grand.

The PPV begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature two-division world champion Badou Jack battling unbeaten top-rated contender Marcus Browne for the WBA Interim Light Heavyweight Title, former world champion Rau’shee Warren taking on France’s Nordine Oubaali for the vacant WBC Bantamweight World Championship and unbeaten WBA Interim Featherweight Champion Jhack Tepora defending against former world champion Hugo Ruiz.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by MP Promotions, Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with About Billions Promotions, are on sale now and start at $100, not including applicable service charges, and can be purchased online through AXS.com, charge by phone at 866-740-7711 or in person at any MGM Resorts International box office.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Wednesday in Las Vegas:

MANNY PACQUIAO

pac broner credit esther lin showtime broner final press conf quotes photos.htm5

“I feel so blessed and happy because of the excitement around this fight. It’s come from the fans here in the U.S. and media all over the world. I want to go out there and make all the people happy.

“The knockout in my last fight felt good. It felt like my younger days against Ricky Hatton, Miguel Cotto and others. That fight was a big challenge for me to recover from the fight against Jeff Horn. People said that my career was done. But I never got discouraged, I just worked hard and made the knockout against Lucas Matthysse happen.

“These days I don’t only train my body, but also my mind. I’m a Senator, so my mind is very busy. I also play chess regularly and read books to keep my mind sharp.

“People writing me off after the Jeff Horn fight was good for me. I’m not mad at anyone who thought that. It just became a challenge and a test to me of whether or not I could still show my best.

“Being back here at MGM Grand makes me so happy. It’s an honor to be in this position. I remember my first fight here in the U.S. was at MGM Grand. I will never forget that moment and now I get to come back here and do it again.

“I know he is going to counter me but we’re ready for that. What happened in the Juan Manuel Marquez fight will not happen again. It was a mistake and I learned that mistake. We’ve worked on that in this training camp. I am prepared for Broner’s style.

“This is a challenge because it is my first fight as a 40-year-old. I have something to prove to everyone about what that means. Age is just a number. What matters is how you prepare and that you’re working hard.

“I don’t need to dislike my opponent to want a knockout. I’m just doing my job in the ring. If the knockout comes, it comes. We’re hoping to have that opportunity Saturday. I have to pressure him to make him open up. Wherever he goes, I’ll be there.

“I’ve always stayed disciplined throughout my years in boxing. I’m always making sure everything is in order and on point during my workouts. That plus cross-training with activities like basketball has helped me stay in this position all these years.”

ADRIEN BRONER

pac broner credit esther lin showtime broner final press conf quotes photos 4

 

“I’m not up here to talk a lot of trash. I’ve put in the work. It’s fight time. After I win, everything is going to be different.

“People are talking a lot about Pacquiao fighting Floyd Mayweather again, but I’m pretty sure Floyd is retired. I feel like people are trying to throw me to the wolves and overlook me.

“He doesn’t remind me of any past opponents just like I’m not going to remind him of anyone he’s fought. He’s never fought anyone like me. Every fighter has similarities, but truly every fighter is different. If I remind him of Floyd Mayweather, I hope his arm doesn’t hurt after this one.

“Look at my last five fights. I’ve fought world champion after world champion. I don’t duck any fights. I don’t care how many weight classes he’s won titles in.

“I’m not in awe of any fighter, especially Manny Pacquiao. I hope he’s in awe of me. I’m a one of a kind fighter too. I’ve made history in this sport.

“I just have to go out and win this fight, then everything is going to start going my way. Saturday night, I will be victorious. This is a defining moment in my career and it’s going to be one of the biggest nights of my life.

“Pacquiao hasn’t fought me so I’m not worried about what he says about me right now. He’s going to have a different outlook after he fights me Saturday night.

“I’m going to turn Las Vegas into a big block party after I win on Saturday night. It’s going to change my career.

“Manny Pacquiao has done a lot for the sport. I’m going to beat him up and have a drink with him afterward. I grew up in boxing and I know what’s going on. It’s a business, but don’t get it twisted, I’m going to dominate and win.

“This is going to be a hell of a fight. I’ve trained so hard and I want everyone to know that I play around a lot, but when that bell rings, I’m going to be ready. I didn’t come here to lose or lay down. I came here to get this victory. Real talk.”

BUBOY FERNANDEZ, Pacquiao’s Co-Trainer

buboy hernandez esther lin showtime

“I’m very thankful to this great team that we have that has prepared Manny for this challenge. I know that we worked very hard for this. I cannot fly without wings, but I can bring the belt back to the Philippines.

“Manny has trained hard and we expect a good fight. This is the hardest I’ve seen him train and it will be seen in the ring Saturday night”

FREDDIE ROACH, Pacquiao’s Co-Trainer

roach pac broner credit esther lin showtime broner final press conf quotes photos

“We’ve trained really hard for this fight. Manny is looking really good and is in tremendous shape. I’m sure Adrien is also because they’re both great fighters. I wish both men luck and may the best man win.”

KEVIN CUNNINGHAM, Broner’s Co-Trainer

kevin cunningham esther lin showtime

“We’ve had a tremendous training camp. Adrien is ready to go. Everyone who knows me, knows that all I have in this world in my word, and I don’t break it for nobody. I’m giving you my word that Adrien will put on a spectacular performance on Saturday night.

“I’m guaranteeing that Adrien will send Manny back to the Senate, beltless, without the WBA title. I guarantee it.”

MIKE STAFFORD, Broner’s Co-Trainer

mike stafford esther lin showtime

“Adrien came to me when he was 55 pounds and seven-years-old. He was an underdog then and he came back day after day. People thought he was a bad kid, but I told people that I saw something in him.

“Freddie Roach didn’t know who Adrien was years ago when we were getting ready to work with the Olympic team together. But he got to know Adrien, and on Saturday night, Manny is going to know him too. That’s for sure.”

JOE RAMOS, COO of Manny Pacquiao Promotions

“We are honored, humbled and proud to be a part of this amazing event. This will be Manny’s 20th fight in Las Vegas and we’ve been treated amazingly throughout the entire promotion. I’m thankful to all of Team Pacquiao for the work they do and helping make everything run smoothly.

“We all know that Adrien is ready and we expect nothing but the best from him and his team on Saturday night.

“MGM Grand is known for the lion, and Lenny the Lion is right there when you enter the building. On Saturday night, Manny will show his heart of a lion for fans all over the world and prove once again that he’s the king of the jungle.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“About three and a half years ago I sat here opposite this great legend in Manny Pacquiao. I’ve studied this man for many years and today he’s still one of the best welterweights in the world. He still has tremendous explosiveness and power, but more importantly the experience to beat any welterweight in the world.

“Pacquiao has been doing this for so many years that we forget how truly great this man is. He’s in a very comfortable position right now. He’s super motivated and thats what is going to make this a great fight on Saturday night.

“Coming into this fight we all know that there have been rumblings about what Adrien needs to do to win this fight. But what I’ve witnessed firsthand this entire promotion, is that this man has dedicated himself 100 percent. He’s done everything his coaches have asked of him and he’s exceeded those expectations.

“Adrien Broner is ready, focused, and he’s put in the work. He’s put himself in the best situation to be successful on Saturday night. I expect nothing less than a great virtuoso performance. He didn’t cut one corner this training camp. He wants to prove to everyone, that everything people have said about him can be thrown out the window. He’s coming to show the entire world what he’s all about.”

RAVONE LITTLEJOHN, CEO of About Billions Promotions

“Adrien trained really hard for this fight. I’d like to thank Kevin Cunningham and Mike Stafford, they put together a great game plan. Adrien will be ready.

“There’s been a lot of talk from Pacquiao’s side about getting a knockout, but you’re the one getting knocked out. You’ve been knocked out, we haven’t.

“This our first time on this stage and in this position and it’s been very enjoyable. Adrien and I have put a lot into this over the last 10-15 years. We’re pulling for our guy 100 percent.”

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

“I’m not going to come up here and tell you all anything you don’t already know about Manny Pacquiao or Adrien Broner. These are two guys who have operated at the highest level of boxing for years. In Manny’s case, literally decades. But I will remind you of some things.

“Manny Pacquiao is a Hall of Famer, no question about it. He’s a boxing legend who’s generous, humble and soft-spoken outside of the ring. But most of all, he takes tough fights. The last 20 opponents Pacquiao has had have been current, future or former world champions.

“Adrien Broner has faced nine world champions in 37 career fights. He’s obviously demonstrated himself as being an elite fighter. He’s flashy, flamboyant, sometimes outrageous, but he’s always unapologetically himself.

“On Saturday night, everything changes. Pacquiao is no longer soft-spoken and Broner is no longer fun-loving and outgoing. They transform themselves into two of the most athletically gifted and ferocious warriors in our sport. Above all these two guys have heart, which is the rarest thing in this sport.

“Between the two of them, they’ve won titles in 12 weight divisions. That’s the third most of all-time, trailing just Mayweather vs. Pacquiao and Pacquiao vs. De La Hoya.

“We know this is an elite fight and these fighters are in elite company. But on Saturday night, none of that matters. It’s not a contest of who has the best resume. This is a high level contest with high stakes between two of the most talented and athletically gifted fighters in the sport today. A win in this fight catapults each of these men to bigger things. It doesn’t get any more significant than that.”

RICHARD STURM, President of Entertainment and Sports for MGM Resorts International

“I’d like to welcome back Manny Pacquiao and Adrien Broner, two of the sport’s best fighters, back to Las Vegas and MGM Grand. Fans are always excited to watch these two fighters compete in the ring and we’re confident that Saturday’s event will kick off another exciting year of sports and entertainment programming for MGM Resorts.

“I’m thankful to all of the people who have helped make this fight happen here in Las Vegas. We look forward to seeing everyone at the MGM Grand Garden Arena Saturday night for this sensational event.”

Manny Pacquiao vs. Adrien Broner Media Conference Call Transcript & Audio Recording

Manny Pacquiao vs. Adrien Broner Media Conference Call Transcript & Audio Recording

Click HERE for Audio Recording

Kelly Swanson
Thanks everyone for calling in for the Manny Pacquiao vs. Adrien Broner media conference call for their fight on January 19 live on SHOWTIME PPV® from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

I’m more than happy to introduce Leonard Ellerbe, Chief Executive Officer of Mayweather Promotions to begin our call. Leonard?

Leonard Ellerbe
Thank you Kelly. I would like to thank everyone for joining the call today. We’re nine days away from what I consider to be the biggest fight of 2019. These fighters are fresh off of two outstanding media day workouts yesterday in California. Both guys seem very focused. They are both in great shape.

We have an unbelievable fight coming next Saturday night. We’re really looking forward to it.

K. Swanson
At this time, I would like to introduce Stephen Espinoza, President of Sports and Event Programming for Showtime Networks Inc. Stephen?

Stephen Espinoza
Thanks Kelly and thanks Leonard. Look, all of you guys are very well-acquainted with Manny and Adrien, you’ve covered them for years. They’re two of the biggest names in the sport so I don’t need to tell you anything more about them.

What I will do is give you some brief programming updates. Episode 2 of “ALL ACCESS” premieres this Friday 9:30 ET/PT on SHOWTIME. That is immediately before ShoBox, which is a three-fight card headlined by Devin Haney.

Then, once we get into fight week — as has become our hallmark — we will be distributing a whole variety of premium content across social media platforms, on SHOWTIME and elsewhere.

We’ve got the four installments of “ALL ACCESS DAILY.” That’s a daily digital series throughout fight week on YouTube and Facebook. We’ve got a daily series created specifically for Snapchat that is going to start even earlier than Fight Week.

We’ll also have livestream coverage of the Wednesday press conference, the Thursday press conference, the Friday weigh-in, as well as the Countdown Live pre-fight show.

So, as we get into these last nine days before the event, there is a variety of content available to satisfy every boxing fan’s need.

Both SHOWTIME subscribers and non-subscribers alike can purchase and live stream this event directly through the SHOWTIME app on a variety of platforms — plus, of course on traditional pay-per-view distributors — making this event available virtually everywhere and anywhere sports fans want to consume their content.

K. Swanson
Now we’re going to hear from Manny Pacquiao and to introduce Manny Pacquiao we have Fred Sternburg. Fred?

Fred Sternburg
Thanks Kelly. Well, I think Stephen said it best, “No introduction needed for boxing’s only eight-division World Champion and the reigning Fighter of the Decade.” So, let me present to you Manny Pacquiao.

Manny Pacquiao
Hello everyone. Good morning. I feel so happy and excited for the fight on January 19 and we’re ready – it’s all set.

Q
Manny, you’ve been now a professional for 24 years and I wonder, as all the big fights that you’ve had, what it is that still motivates you to keep boxing?

M. Pacquiao
I’m still passionate about the sport of boxing and boxing is my passion and that’s why I’m still here continuing fighting. I really love boxing and that’s why I’m always excited and preparing for my fight to be settled on January 19.

Q
Are there any things particular that you still want to accomplish?

M. Pacquiao
Talking about accomplishments, I really have accomplished what I want to accomplish in life. What I want to do is to maintain and stay at this level.

Q
Manny, are there any concessions or changes that you’ve had to make due to your age?

M. Pacquiao
The routine of my training is the same. Jog in the morning and train in the afternoon. But we have a couple of adjustments in training specifically for recovery.

Because sometimes we push ourselves heavy in training in the day and then I we’ll see if overnight I can recover, and then we’ll push again.

But if I cannot recover then I let my body rest so that the following day it can push again and work hard.

Q
What was it that lead you to take fights away from the Unites States?

M. Pacquiao
I think it just happened that some promotors and some people are most of the people they wanted me to fight there to see me live in-person. So, that’s an opportunity for them that they can see my fight.

Q
I just got off the phone with Freddie Roach and he said he thinks that you have the old killer instinct back. Is there indeed the return of a killer instinct and do you have more of a mindset of going for the knockout in this fight?

M. Pacquiao
That’s true I still have that killer instinct and the fire in my eyes is still there. That aggressiveness, the interest in this career is still there 100%. The speed, the power are still there. I’m so thankful to God.

I’m not saying I’m going to predict for this fight. I will do my best and I look forward to this the same as the last fight. But no prediction, I will do my best with what we did in training camp.

Q
Would you tell us what you said to Floyd Mayweather when you saw him at the basketball game the other day?

M. Pacquiao
Surprisingly, I didn’t know that he was there at the game. I was invited on that Filipino Heritage Night at the Clippers’ game. I didn’t know that he was there and then when they were throwing t-shirts to the crowds I saw him. And then I just say, “Hello.” That’s it.
Q
Regarding the Floyd Mayweather fight whether or not it’s going to happen. Has it gotten to a point where you kind of feel a little annoyed with the question?

M. Pacquiao
You cannot avoid the people that will ask if there’s a rematch with Floyd Mayweather because I think they have a big question mark in their mind and also in their heart about that what happened in that fight.

I’m just answering them that I don’t have a plan yet. I’m very focused on this fight January 19 against Adrien Broner because Broner is a former champion and he’s the kind of fighter that you cannot underestimate or take him lightly.

Q
What did it feel like having Freddie Roach back in your corner helping you prepare for a fight?

M. Pacquiao
Freddie’s never out of Team Pacquiao it just happened that I wanted Buboy to experience being a head trainer in one fight.

But it’s a good thing that we’re working here again and I like to be back here in Wild Card Gym in Los Angeles and back again in Las Vegas for a fight. I think that it’s good for us to be united and focused for this coming fight next week.

Q
Was the talent at welterweight a bit of a motivating factor to sign with PBC and potentially get those types of dream matches and turning them into a reality?

M. Pacquiao
I think after this fight it’s easy to talk about my next opponent. That’s very easy but right now my plan is one at a time, because — as they said — I am 40 years old.

I’m focused for this fight against Adrien Broner. One at a time. After the fight on January 19 that night then we can talk about my next fight.

Q
Could you rank your top five opponents as far as preparing for the fight and degree of difficulty?

M. Pacquiao
I think my top opponents are Oscar De La Hoya, Juan Manuel Marquez, Marco Antonio Barrera, Miguel Cotto, Floyd Mayweather, Erik Morales and Ricky Hatton.

Q
What challenge does Adrien pose?

M. Pacquiao
We know already about his counter-punching. I know that he will wait for me and counter like Marquez did. I’m prepared for that and it will not happen again. I learned in the past and I have to correct my mistake.

Q
Can you talk a little bit about what you felt when you saw Mayweather fight on New Year’s Eve and is there any comparison between Adrien Broner and Floyd Mayweather?

M. Pacquiao
Adrien Broner is not a tune up fight. He’s a former champion. He’s fast, he moves fast and he’s a good boxer. And that’s why I don’t want to talk about my next fight until we finish this. I finish this business against Adrien Broner on January 19.

And about the exhibition of Floyd Mayweather in Japan, it’s my first time to see an exhibition that you knock your opponent out. Supposedly an exhibition is just to entertain people and nothing serious for three rounds. That’s what I understand about exhibitions.

Q
Do you have the desire to once again to be the undisputed Welterweight Champion?

M. Pacquiao
Let me take care of this January 19 and then I have to worry about who is my opponent next. I have no problem to fight anybody as long as there’s not a problem about negotiation. But my plan is just one at a time.

Q
What do you think of Adrien Broner as an opponent and as a person heading into January 19?

M. Pacquiao
It’s unfair to him that people are thinking that he’s not a serious challenge for me. No, Adrien Broner is a good boxer, he’s a high-caliber boxer. He’s a former champion and he’s the kind of fighter that you cannot underestimate or take him lightly.

K. Swanson
Thank you so much Manny, for answering those questions, we appreciate it. We’re so happy you’re back fighting in the United States for all of us to be able to come and watch you.

M. Pacquiao
Thank you, guys. Nice to be back here in the United States. Thank you, God bless.

K. Swanson
Thanks, Fred. Okay, now we’re going to transition over to Adrien Broner. I’d like to introduce Ravone Littlejohn. He’s the CEO of About Billions Promotion and he will make the introduction of Adrien Broner. Ravone?

Ravone Littlejohn
At About Billions Promotions we’re happy to be promoting this fight as the premier event that we’ve had in our infancy as a company. Adrien has trained very well and very hard. He’s more than ready for his opportunity. We’d like to thank all the promotional entities who are involved in this fight. And at this time I’ll go ahead and pass it over to Adrien.

Adrien Broner
What’s up with everyone? What’s good? Training camp’s been great. I’m training my ass off. I’ve been focused and I’m just ready to go out there and prove all the naysayers wrong.

Q
Adrien are you motivated by being am underdog in this fight?

A. Broner
It’s real motivating, but I don’t worry about it. I just don’t let it get to me. I just can’t wait for the bell to ring January 19.

Q
If you beat Manny Pacquiao how much would that erase any bad feelings or negativity associated with your losses?

A. Broner
It definitely would. In life they say you’re only as good as your last performance, so it’s definitely going to sweep a lot of things under the rug.

Q
What would it mean to you then to get that caliber of a victory? How big in the scheme of things would that be for you?

A. Broner
It’s going to be huge and I’m taking full advantage of it. I’m well-prepared and I’m just ready to go out there and perform.

Q
There’s there’s been some news reports about some of your legal issues. Has that in any way impacted your training or focus on this fight?

A. Broner
No, that’s just something I’ll take care of after the fight. Right now I’m 100% focused on this fight and I’m just ready to come to the ring January 19 and get a victory.

Q
My question is for Stephen Espinoza. Hey, Stephen, how are you? Just briefly, this event is a SHOWTIME PPV event on January 19. Do you have any comments on specifically Eddie Hearn and Oscar De La Hoya saying that PPV is dead in boxing?

And furthermore, do you think on a microeconomic level that PPV and American professional sports is dead?

S. Espinoza
Sure, I’m happy to. Look, on the concept of PPV we’ve consistently said that it’s a useful tool when it’s necessary, when you have a premium event. If you’ve got a filet mignon event, you’re going to have filet mignon prices. You don’t get filet mignon at the price of ground beef.

I think a lot of the blowback and the negativity around PPV comes when networks are trying to sell people PPVs that don’t belong there.

I didn’t hear too many people saying that Wilder versus Fury was not a premium event, a special event, a Heavyweight Title fight, an International Worldwide Title fight that deserved to be PPV

Likewise, on January 19 you have two of the biggest stars in the sport. Manny has a long history on PPV and the way this event was able to happen was through that tool. So these two events, plus Mayweather and McGregor, are the only PPVs we’ve done in the last three years.

So, I understand what Eddie Hearn and Oscar De La Hoya are saying. It’s a great marketing ploy and that’s really all it is is just a catchphrase because both of those guys rely on PPV and have relied on it as an integral part of their business in the past.

Eddie on one hand will say that they’re are terrible thing and they’re dead, but if we look at his U.K. business it’s basically all built on PPV.

Oscar himself while he’s saying that boxing PPVs are dead is simultaneously selling an MMA PPV. So, the reality is, it’s a useful tool. It rewards the fighters for taking tough fights and it allows some fights to happen that wouldn’t otherwise happen without that tool. But it should be used sparingly.

Q
Adrien, has that been frustrating for you that some people may not be taking you seriously?

A. Broner
No disrespect but I don’t care at all about Mayweather and Pacquiao or any other fights people are talking about. I’m focused on Adrien Broner and Pacquiao. I’m focused on getting this victory. And then I’m going to go to the drawing board with my team and make bigger moves.

Q
Did you get a chance to see Pacquiao’s last fight against Lucas Matthysse? And if so, what do you think of Pacquiao and how his skills have sort of translated now being 40?

A. Broner
Pacquiao’s a legend. He’ll always go down as one of the best in the boxing business. But I just feel like it’s my time to take over this sport and I’m coming to take the throne from Pacquiao.

Q
I just asked Manny on the previous call what his top five fights were in terms of preparation and degree of difficulty. He listed about six or seven and the top one was Oscar De La Hoya. You weren’t on the list. What do you think that says about him and do you think he’s in for a rude awakening?

A. Broner
I’m just focusing. I’m just ready to go in there and have a hell of a night and start a new chapter in my career.

Q
Do you think that your counter-punching ability is the antidote to his style of speed, jumping in, being aggressive?

A. Broner
It’ll definitely play a big part but we’ve got more in store to beat Pacquiao and I will show that January 19.

Q
What is the difference between the Adrien Broner who lost three fights and the one who is going into this fight?

A. Broner
My dedication to the sport. People who have seen me would 100% vouch for me. I know what’s at stake. A win over Pacquiao could take my career somewhere that I can only dream of. So I’ve got to take it seriously and I just really feel like it’s my time.

Q
What are the things you’re looking at in camp that gives you the confidence that you can knock Manny out?

A. Broner
The knockout is good but I’m definitely just going for the win. I just want to win, pointblank, period. Everybody goes into a fight wanting to knockout. Who doesn’t want to knock someone out? But, you know, things will unravel on January 19.

Q
Do you think that this is a must-win fight for you?

A. Broner
At the end of the day, if you’re a boxer, every fight is a must-win fight. You don’t ever want to go to a fight trying to lose.

As a competitor, as an athlete, when I prepare, I go in to win. I’m trying to win. It’s always a must-win situation.

Q
I’m wondering what you perceive the stakes to be when you ponder this and say to yourself, “Okay, I’m going to beat Manny Pacquiao.”

A. Broner
I don’t look at that. Boxing is a sport where you’ve got to go a fight at a time. So, I’m focused on Manny Pacquiao and after that we’ll look at other things and other avenues.

Q
Can you speak to the fact that you say this fight is for the ‘hood and how important it is to you to come out victorious?

A. Broner
Where I come from, man, we barely have seen someone to come out and be at the top level where I am today. So that’s why I’m doing this for the ‘hood to give back hope and show the young kids that they can follow their dreams.

That motivates me to just go in there and do my best. We’re going to go in there and get the victory.

 

MANNY PACQUIAO & ADRIEN BRONER LOS ANGELES MEDIA DAY QUOTES & PHOTOS

MANNY PACQUIAO & ADRIEN BRONER LOS ANGELES MEDIA DAY QUOTES & PHOTOS

(Photo Credits-Esther Lin/SHOWTIME)

Pacquiao vs. Broner Headlines SHOWTIME PPV® Saturday, January 19 From the MGM Grand Garden Arena In Las Vegas & Presented by Premier Boxing Champions

LOS ANGELES (January 10, 2019) – – Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao,boxing’s only eight-division world champion, and former four-division world champion Adrien “The Problem” Broner hosted media days in Los Angeles Wednesday as they near their SHOWTIME PPV® clash taking place Saturday, January 19 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by MP Promotions, Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with About Billions Promotions, are on sale now and start at $100, not including applicable service charges, and can be purchased online through AXS.com, charge by phone at 866-740-7711 or in person at any MGM Resorts International box office.

Pacquiao will end his two-year hiatus from a U.S. boxing ring when he returns to Las Vegas to defend his World Boxing Association Welterweight World Title against Broner. Along with co-trainer Buboy Fernandez and longtime trainer Freddie Roach, Pacquiao spoke to media and worked out for the cameras at Wild Card Boxing Club.

Broner traveled to Los Angeles from his current training camp in Las Vegas to talk to media along with his trainer Kevin Cunningham at Ten Goose Boxing Gym, after spending most of training in West Palm Beach, Florida.

Here is what the media day participants had to say from the split-site media day Wednesday:

MANNY PACQUIAO

pac broner credit esther lin showtime“My journey in this sport is still continuing. I’ve accomplished everything I’ve wanted to, but I also want to continue to keep my name at the top. Even at 40-years-old, I can still show the best of Manny Pacquiao. I’m going to give the fans the speed and power that they’re used to seeing.

“I’m sure that Broner is focused on this fight. They are working hard and I expect him to be in great condition. We know how his trainer pushes him and has been pushing him in their training camp.

“I’m not taking this fight lightly. I don’t listen to any gossip about Adrien Broner, I just focus on my training. I want to be in 100 percent condition and ready for the fight on January 19.

“Adrien Broner is fast with his hands and he’s overall a good boxer. This is a big challenge that I’m excited for.

“Me, Freddie and Buboy know each other well and we have a great coaching staff right now. I’m happy with how everything has gone in training for this fight.

“Rest and recovery is definitely a key part of training. Sometimes when I work hard in the gym, my body can’t fully recover by the next day, so I’ve had to work more rest into the schedule. But as soon as I can, I’m back in the gym working hard.

pac broner credit esther lin showtime1

“On January 19 I’m going to do my best. I can’t say a prediction, but I’m going to do the same thing I did for my last fight. My trainers know how hard I’ve worked in this camp for this win.

“My plan is to take it one fight at a time. I can’t talk about future fights until I do what I have to on January 19. You can ask me again after this one.

“This fight means a lot. It’s my first fight at the age of 40 so I’m excited to give my best and show the world what I can still do. Boxing is my passion, and public service is my mission. I love to bring honor to my country.”

pac broner credit esther lin showtime2

 

 

ADRIEN BRONER

pac broner credit esther lin showtime broner 1

“Growing up and seeing Pacquiao fight, of course I always wanted to fight him. I’m a competitor. One day I want to be the best, and to be the best you have to beat the best. It starts here.

“This is my first PPV but I was always supposed to be here. God doesn’t make mistakes. After this victory, I will be taking over the sport of boxing. This is just the beginning.

“His last fight he did stop Matthysse, so I’m pretty sure he still has power. But I’m going to be ready, I’m going to be ready for whatever he brings to the table. We’re in shape to get it done, I can tell you that.

“This win makes me an icon. It makes me what I always wanted to be, and what everybody always thought I would be. A win here and I’m a legend overnight.

“It’s going to be a hell of a fight. I just can’t wait till round one. Everybody I fight says they are going to knock me out. That should be the objective of every fighter, but that’s not going to happen.

“The sky is the limit for me, but in boxing you have to take it one fight at a time. You can’t overlook anybody in this sport. My main focus is Manny Pacquiao and I will be ready.

“A win would mean a lot. It turns a new page in my book. It’s another beginning. I’m already a star in boxing, but a win here and I’m taking over the sport. This is just the beginning.

“It’s not a mystery – he’s been knocked out before. Not once, not twice, but three times. And he’s been put down a lot, too. There are many blueprints to beat Manny. I think I have all the tools to beat him. I will show all the tools in my arsenal and show all the weaknesses in his.”

pac broner credit esther lin showtime broner

 

BUBOY FERNANDEZ, Pacquiao’s Co-Trainer

“I think it’s going to be a knockout. If Broner opens the door, we’re going to get it early. I’ve seen from previous fights that he’s a slow starter. So we need to get inside and go first.

“We know that Broner is a good counter-puncher with a strong right uppercut. Broner is a real fighter and a smart fighter in the ring.

“I’m happy that Manny has shown that he moves as well as ever, even at 40-years-old. He’s learning even more now. I told the team that I think he’s already prepared for this fight.

“We just want him to maintain this shape and energy level. Manny is 110 percent ready. I don’t think there’s a fighter who can keep up with what Manny brings.”

FREDDIE ROACH, Pacquiao’s Co-Trainer

roach pac broner credit esther lin showtime

“I can’t wait for this fight. Camp has been great and he’s been training very well. Everything is back to normal and he’s looked amazing.

“Manny and I have been together 15 years, so I had no reason to ever be mad at Manny. Everything has worked out really well and we’re working together as a team right now.

“I’m working on the game plan for how to fight Broner. He’s a counterpuncher who doesn’t like to come forward too much. Manny will have to be the aggressor in this fight and use his feints to trap this guy into making it more of a fight.

“I feel we’re going to see an aggressive Manny Pacquiao. There’s a rumor that Manny has been telling people he’s looking for a knockout. I love that attitude. I think his knockout of Lucas Matthysse was so satisfying and he saw that that’s what the fans really want. I think that’s going to carry over to this fight.

“Pacquiao and I have a deal. Once his work ethic drops, I’m going to tell him and he’s agreed he’ll retire. His work ethic is unbelievable right now. He hasn’t slowed down at all. He hit me with a shot in the chest two or three days ago, and I’ve never been hit harder in my life.”

KEVIN CUNNINGHAM, Broner’s Trainer

“Everything went tremendous in Florida. I’ve never seen Adrien this focused and I’ve been around him for years. He came to camp with a look on his face like this is the one he’s got to have. He prepared for nine hard weeks and we didn’t miss a beat. Everting was on point.

“He’s ready. He’s focused. We had tremendous sparring. Everything went great. We didn’t have any hiccups, any injuries or setbacks. He’s ready to go and he’s going to look spectacular on January 19.

“Manny fights with a high punch volume and he’s aggressive with it. But sometimes he’s reckless with it. Adrien is a sharp counter-puncher. He gets off first and last. If Adrien comes to the ring mentally sharp like I know he will, because physically he’s as sharp as ever, as long as his mind is on point, I think it’s going to be a long night for Manny and it’s the wrong fight for Manny.

“There’s a lot there to exploit. I know Manny throws a lot of punches and Adrien doesn’t throw a lot, but this fight is not about matching Manny’s punch count. This fight is about throwing the right shots at the right time.

“There’s a big difference in Adrien from the last camp. He didn’t take Jessie Vargas as seriously as he’s taking this legendary eight-time world champion in Manny Pacquiao. There were some things that went on that showed he wasn’t as focused as he is for a fight like this. He’s just been on point. He’s not screwing around. He’s not looking for days off to go have a good time. He’s just locked in on Manny Pacquiao.”

 

FOUR-DIVISION WORLD CHAMPION ADRIEN BRONER MIAMI MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

FOUR-DIVISION WORLD CHAMPION ADRIEN BRONER MIAMI MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

Broner Battles Welterweight Champion Manny Pacquiao Saturday, January 19 on SHOWTIME PPV® from MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas

MIAMI (December 18, 2018) – Four-division world champion and must-see attraction Adrien “The Problem” Broner hosted a media workout at Miami Beach’s famed 5th Street Gym on Tuesday as he prepares to face Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao, boxing’s only eight-division world champion, for his World Boxing Association Welterweight World Title on SHOWTIME PPV® Saturday, January 19 from MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

In undercard action on the SHOWTIME PPV, two-division world champion Badou Jack will battle unbeaten top-rated contender Marcus Browne for the WBA Interim Light Heavyweight Title and former world champion Rau’shee Warren will take on France’s Nordine Oubaali for the vacant WBC Bantamweight World Championship in a rematch of their 2012 Olympic matchup that was edged by Oubaali. In the opening bout of the four-fight PPV telecast, unbeaten Jhack Tepora will take on former world champion Hugo Ruiz in a 12-round featherweight clash.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by MP Promotions, Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with About Billions Promotions, are on sale now and start at $100, not including applicable service charges, and can be purchased online through AXS.com, charge by phone at 866-740-7711 or in person at any MGM Resorts International box office.

Cincinnati’s Broner, one of boxing’s most popular and colorful personalities, is training under the tutelage of Kevin Cunningham in nearby West Palm Beach, Fla.

Broner Broner Pac Robby Illanes SHOWTIME                                                  Credit- Robby Illanes/SHOWTIME

 

Here is what Broner and Cunningham had to say Tuesday:

ADRIEN BRONER

“This fight is real important. This is a hell of a fight not only for me but for the sport. This is a fight that needed to happen for the sport and we are going to put on a hell of a show.

“I always knew that one day I would be having fights like this. Honestly I thought he [Pacquiao] would be done with boxing by now but I always knew I would have a fight of this magnitude on this platform, pay-per-view and all and now I’m here.

“I knew what to expect. I knew he [Kevin] was going to be real strict and I just came prepared. Ready to put it all in and put it all on the line.”

On what he does in his down time:
“I try to rest as much as possible. I’m training so much and training real hard. This will be my second workout of the day and then after this I have another workout at 8:30 p.m. so that will be the third workout for the day so you know all my off time I try to eat properly, stay hydrated and stay focused.”

On how it feels to train in a gym that hosted greats like Muhammad Ali:
“It’s lovely. I never knew this gym existed and this is my first time ever being here or ever hearing about this gym being legendary. Muhammad Ali paved the way for guys like me and Sugar Ray Leonard and everyone else so, its legendary.

“I always tell other fighters and other people it takes more to be a star than just boxing. I just have everything it takes to be a mega star.”

Broner Broner Pac Robby Illanes SHOWTIME 1                                                  Broner Broner Pac Robby Illanes SHOWTIME 3                                                                        Broner Broner Pac Robby Illanes SHOWTIME 4                                                                                                         Credit- Robby Illanes/SHOWTIME      

On Pacquiao’s last fight against Lucas Matthysse:
“I didn’t see it but I heard he looked good. I don’t know what to expect. I’m just training for the best Pacquiao. And I’m going to go out there and do what I have to do to get the victory.”

How do you feel training in South Florida?
“I’m not focused on the clubbing and stuff and all that stuff will be here after the fight. I’m 110 percent focused on this fight.”

What he will do after the Pacquiao Fight?
“Boxing you have to take it one fight at a time. My main focus is getting past Manny Pacquiao first and then we can talk about other things.”

On whether or not Pacquiao has a weakness:
“It’s not a mystery. He has seven losses. It’s not a mystery that he can lose but anyone can lose on any given day. It’s whoever prepares the best and I’m preparing myself to do what I need to do. I don’t care about stopping him or whether it’s a unanimous decision, as long as I’m victorious.”

On whether or not this is the biggest fight of his career:
“This is definitely my biggest fight, biggest magnitude, biggest platform I’ve ever been on but you never know. I could probably go in there and make this look like the easiest fight of my career you just never know.”

KEVIN CUNNINGHAM

“I think he’s having even a better camp than the last. He’s added a new strength and conditioning coach and everything is working out perfect and camp is going extremely well and smooth. AB’s looking fast and explosive. I have no complaints.

“Adrien’s got everything; he’s a real throwback fighter. He’s got speed, he’s got power, he’s got quickness, he’s got footwork. He can punch and he can bang and he can box. He’s got skills and he can be slick if he wants to be. So he’s the total package.

“We have an idea of the way the fight is going to go. We’ve studied tons of Pacquiao footage and he pretty much fights the same every fight. Manny’s a rhythm fighter so it’s all about getting in his rhythm. He pretty much does his thing. But outside of that I’ve never really seen him make too many adjustments. He’s pretty much the same guy.”

ADRIEN BRONER & JESSIE VARGAS FIGHT TO HIGHLY ENTERTAINING MAJORITY DRAW SATURDAY ON SHOWTIME® FROM BARCLAYS CENTER IN BROOKLYN

Jermall Charlo Sends Statement To Middleweight Division With KO Of Hugo Centeno Jr.; VIDEO: https://s.sho.com/2vxBnDM
 
Gervonta Davis Reclaims 130-Pound Title With TKO Of Jesus Cuellar; VIDEO: https://s.sho.com/2vusWsW
 
Watch The Encore Presentation Monday At 10 P.M. ET/PT On 
SHOWTIME EXTREME®
 
Click HERE for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME
(Photos to be added shortly)
 
Click HERE for Photos from Janer Bigio/Mayweather Promotions
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment
BROOKLYN (April 22, 2018) – Four-division world champion Adrien Broner and two-division world champion Jessie Vargas fought to a highly entertaining 12-round majority draw Saturday night on SHOWTIME in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING in front of 13,964 fans at Barclays Center in Brooklyn in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
 
The back-and-forth battle was a tale of activity vs. accuracy. Vargas was by far the more active fighter, throwing 839 total punches, 300 more than his opponent. Yet the flashy Broner was supremely accurate, connecting on 44 percent of his power shots and 38 percent of his total punches, compared to just 27 and 24, respectively, for Vargas.
 
Broner (33-3-1, 24 KOs) came on strong in the second half of the fight, picking up rounds eight through 10 on all three of the judges’ scorecards. The 12th round was crucial in determining the draw, which was scored 115-113 Broner and 114-114 twice. The judges agreed on eight of the 12 rounds but couldn’t agree on the final round, which was ruled differently by the two judges who scored the fight a draw.
“I want to thank Jessie Vargas. He’s a two-time world champion for a reason,” said Broner, who was working for the first time with Kevin Cunningham as his head trainer. “He came to fight but at the end of the day, you all know I beat him. Point blank, period.
 
“I was connecting with rights. I got warmed up in the early portion of the fight. My trainer was a big help tonight. I want to thank Coach Cunningham as well as my original coach, Mike Stafford, for realizing I needed to do something different.
 
“I would love to fight Vargas again, but let’s go back to my town to do it.”
 
Vargas (28-2-1, 10 KOs) worked off the jab and was incredibly effective with his body shots in just his second fight with trainer and former world champion Mike “The Body Snatcher” McCallum.
 
“I thought I won the fight,” Vargas said. “At the end of the day I can’t argue because I was fighting on the inside of the ring so I don’t know what you saw from the outside. I was landing clean blows. It was a good fight but at the end of the day I can’t dispute the decision.
 
“It must have been a close fight for the judges to have scored it the way they did. I felt that I won the fight and I was up two rounds. I’m relying on the judges to make the right decision.”
 
Former 154-pound champion Jermall Charlo sent a statement to the middleweight division in the co-main event, knocking out previously once-beaten contender Hugo Centeno Jr. to capture the interim WBC 160-pound title. VIDEO:https://s.sho.com/2vxBnDM
 
Charlo is now the mandatory for Gennady “GGG” Golovkin and didn’t shy away from calling out the WBC, WBA and IBF Middleweight World Champion.
 
“It’s been an amazing journey to get here,” said Charlo, the twin brother of WBC 154-pound champion Jermell Charlo. “I’m a two-time world champion. Bring on ‘GGG.’ I want that fight. I’m 27-0 with 21 knockouts. Everybody sees it. What more can I say?”
 
Charlo (27-0, 21 KOs) proved that his power translates to middleweight as he knocked out his second opponent since relinquishing his title and moving to 160 pounds. The Houston native has now won via knockout in five of his six bouts since initially becoming champion in 2015. A series of shots opened up a huge left hook in the opening minute of the second round, flooring Centeno (26-2, 14 KOs), who failed to beat the 10-count and was counted out at :55.
 
“Everybody has always avoided me and from now on, this is how it’s going to be,” said Charlo. “You see what you get.”
 
Following the fight, Centeno was aware of the mistakes that led to the loss.
 
“I thought I started off pretty well. I wanted to go out on my shield but it wasn’t my day,” Centeno said. “He caught me and got the knockout. I was trying to work my jab. I thought I got him with a couple good shots but I lingered too long in the pocket and I didn’t get out in time.”
 
In the opening bout of the telecast, Gervonta Davis became a two-time world champion in empathic fashion with a third round TKO of former champion Jesus Cuellar to capture the vacant WBA 130-pound World Championship. VIDEO:https://s.sho.com/2vusWsW
 
The undefeated Davis (20-0, 19 KOs), who lost the IBF 130-pound title on the scales last August, scored three knockdowns in less than three rounds to win his second title in the super featherweight division. The 23-year-old connected on 49 percent of his power shots in his first bout with new trainer Kevin Cunningham.
 
“On the undercard of the Mayweather-McGregor fight, I just wasn’t focused,” Davis said. “It was the second time fighting on Mayweather’s card so it got to my head and it showed. After the fight, I went home and talked to my team and we decided it was time to leave Baltimore. I’m focused and it showed because I’m a champ again.
 
“There’s always bumps in the road when you want to become successful. It’s all about how you bounce back and tonight I showed that I’m a true champion.”
 
Davis utilized a combination of body shots, uppercuts and effective counterpunching to break down Cuellar, a former titlist at 126-pounds. Baltimore’s Davis floored Cuellar with a body blow in the second round and didn’t relent from there. The southpaw pressed forward in the third, stalking Cuellar against the ropes and sending him down for the second time with a series of combinations. Cuellar (28-3, 21 KOs) got up, but was in serious trouble and referee Benjy Esteves stepped in to halt the contest at 2:45 with the Argentine falling to the canvas for the third time.
 
“The game plan was to box a little bit and open him up with some shots,” Davis said. “When it was time, I went forward and caught him with enough shots to get him out.
 
“I want the IBF belt back and I’m ready to unify it with whoever wins the [Tevin] Farmer vs. [Billy] Dib fight.”
 
On Saturday’s telecast, it was announced that Errol Spence Jr. will make the second defense of his IBF Welterweight World Championship against undefeated mandatory challenger Carlos Ocampo June 16 on SHOWTIME in a homecoming fight in Dallas.
 
Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader will replay on Monday at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME.

Quotes & Photos from Final Press Conference for Adrien Broner vs. Jessie Vargas, Jermall Charlo vs. Hugo Centeno Jr. & Gervonta Davis vs. Jesus Cuellar
Adrien Broner vs. Jessie Vargas Plus Jermall Charlo vs. Hugo Centeno Jr. & Gervonta Davis vs. Jesus Cuellar
Final Press Conference Quotes & Photos
 
SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Tripleheader This Saturday, April 21 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn & Presented by Premier Boxing Champions
 
Click HERE for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Photos from Janer Bigio/
Mayweather Promotions
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment
 
BROOKLYN (April 19, 2018) – Fighters competing on Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader, headlined by four-division champion Adrien Broner battling two-division champion Jessie Vargas, went face-to-face Thursday at a press conference in Brooklyn before they enter the ring this Saturday, April 21 at Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
 
Live coverage on SHOWTIME begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and also features undefeated former world champion Jermall Charlo clashing with once-beaten Hugo Centeno, Jr. for the interim 160-pound world title and former champions Gervonta “Tank” Davis and Jesus Cuellar as they square off for the vacant WBA 130-pound Super World Championship.
 
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, DiBella Entertainment and TGB Promotions, start at $50 and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
 
Also in attendance Thursday was popular local fighter and unbeaten contender Heather “The Heat” Hardy, who takes on Paola Torres in undercard action Saturday night.
 
Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from Barclays Center in Brooklyn:
 
ADRIEN BRONER
 
“I’m just ready to fight. I’m not worried about Jessie. This is a very important fight for my career. I know that Jessie trained hard to beat me. This is a win that could take either of us to the next level. I’m ready to fight right now and get after it.
 
“When he stepped up and fought Tim Bradley and Manny Pacquiao, he lost. I’m a four-time world champion so I don’t want to hear anything about my losses. Jessie Vargas is not as good as those guys I lost to.
 
“I hope I get credit when I beat Jessie Vargas. I hope I get the credit I deserve. People want me to lose and go away, but guess what? I worked harder than ever for this fight. I’m not losing to Jessie Vargas. I’m a four-time world champion and soon to be five-time world champion this year.
 
“I’m still one of the best fighters of this era. When I’m done with my career, I will be one of the best to ever lace up a pair of boxing gloves. I just can’t wait to give everyone something to remember on Saturday.
 
“Being with Kevin Cunningham in camp changed a lot. It took a while to get used to it. This is the first camp I’ve done since I was kid with a new coach. There were no distractions down at camp. It was all work, no play.
 
“I’m on a different level than him. I’m going to prove it on Saturday. I don’t worry about any of the negativity that surrounds my name. I’m just ready to go put on a show.
 
“I’m taking over this year. It all starts with Jessie Vargas on Saturday night. I’m going to be myself, and put on a great show.”
 
JESSIE VARGAS
 
“Everything in training camp has gone fantastically. I can’t wait for this fight. This isn’t a game. I’m here to win and I plan to do that. This is going to be action.
 
“I’ve seen the mistakes Broner has made in the past. I have to come out and worry about my performance though. I’m versatile and I’ll do what I have to do. We’re both former world champions but at the end of the day there will only be one winner, and It’s going to be me.
 
“I think I have an advantage being the taller and stronger fighter. I’m a full grown welterweight. I’m ready for victory.
 
“We both bring experience and we’re both talented guys. We are definitely going to give the fans entertainment on Saturday night. I’m in a great part of my career because I haven’t received that much punishment. I’m a two-division world champion for a reason.
 
“My weight has been on point this camp. My nutritionist has done a great job and I’m going to be perfect on the scale tomorrow. My whole team has been perfect and it’s going to lead to the best Jessie Vargas you’ve ever seen on Saturday.
 
“Saturday night is going to be a great show. It’s a great card and then main event will be all fireworks. Come out and enjoy a great night of boxing and see me get the win.”
 
JERMALL CHARLO
 
“I’m looking to make a statement on Saturday night. I’ve been training hard since my last fight. I promised my fans something they’ll remember from this fight. You’ll have to wait and see.
 
“Once you step in front of me, it’s a fight. I put my life on the line each time. I’m just looking forward to even bigger things that are in front of me. I’m giving the fans something special to take home from my performance.
 
“I feel really good right now. It was another one of those camps that I was able to start early and get in the gym early. I can do whatever you need to do in the ring. I’m ready to make this fight all fireworks.
 
“I do a lot of good things in camp to make myself feel stronger. It was a little tough with the delay, but nothing that I couldn’t work through. I’m on weight right now this far out. I have a great team that’s helped me get there.
 
“I’m focused on what I have going on. Hugo thinks I’m overlooking him but that’s not happening at all. I want to take him out and make a statement that I’m ready for the big names in the division.
 
“We’re going to turn Brooklyn up. I want to really make a statement. No matter how I’m feeling throughout the fight, we’re going to make it rock.”
 
HUGO CENTENO JR.
 
“I feel like I’m being overlooked. I haven’t been able to make myself a household name by being on these platforms. Come April 21, I’m going to make my name known.
 
“The rib injury was tough to take at first. We were very close to the end, but once I resumed training, I was already in phenomenal condition. It took me to another level and now I’m in the best condition of my life.
 
“I feel perfect right now heading into this fight. We had great sparring in camp and I’m ready to step into the ring.
 
“Even just being in this position shows people that I’ve earned my way here. No one has handed me anything. This is one of the hardest divisions in the world and I’m here for a reason. This fight means the world to me. It’s been 20 years of hard work coming together Saturday.
 
“I know Charlo is coming to fight, and I’m definitely coming to fight. No matter what the strategy or style is, I’m going to be ready for whatever comes my way.
 
“I expect him to come out strong. We know he’s looking for a knockout. But I think if he doesn’t have the opportunity, it will come down to who is the smarter fighter.”
 
GERVONTA DAVIS
 
“Saturday night you can expect an action packed fight. I know Cuellar is going to come to fight. I’m definitely coming to fight. I’m ready to pick up where I left off, as a champion again.
 
“I had a lot of distractions last camp that led to me missing weight. From that day forward I was focused on getting back to a world title shot. I let people down when I lost the title on the scale, but now I’m more focused.
 
“It was great being in camp in Florida instead of back home in Baltimore. This way it’s only boxing that I’m worried about each day. I’m eating right and really just 100 percent focused on boxing. It was a great move and it’ll show on Saturday.
 
“I have the skills and the charisma to be at the top of the sport. I just need the right opponents, but I’m not going to rush it. I have to make smart decisions in this sport to get where I want. I want to continue to put on great performances.
 
“I believe this fight is going to put me back on the map as one of the youngest rising stars in boxing. I believe I have the skills to do that.
 
“I’ve been training so hard with Adrien in camp. We’ve been pushing each other and I just want to be able to look back at this fight and be able to say this was one of my best performances. I want to show that I have the skills and ability to take over the sport of boxing.”
 
JESUS CUELLAR
 
“I understand that Davis is a great opponent, but inside the ring, it will just be the two of us, going toe-to-toe. I know that it’s going to be a great fight.
 
“This is going to be all action. Expect to see a war with me raising my hand at the end of the night. I’m going to do whatever it takes.
 
“The plan is to go out there and win that belt. We’ve had great training and sparring to get us in this position. My coaches worked really hard to get me ready.
 
“This fight is very important for me. I want to become a two-division world champion and I have the chance I’ve waited for on Saturday night.
 
“I think I made the right decision to take some time away from boxing. Now I’m back stronger than ever. I feel great and everyone will see that on Saturday night.
 
“We have a game plan and we’re going to execute that. I’m going to be aggressive like I always am, but also show some new things that I’ve worked on.
 
“I’m ready to go 12 rounds if necessary, but If I have the opportunity early for a knockout, I’m going to take it. I’m here to give it my all and win this fight, that’s it.”
 
HEATHER HARDY
 
“There’s really nothing like fighting at home. As exciting as it was to be in the cage, this is like being in my backyard.
 
“This is always a dream to box at Barclays Center and there’s nothing like being here in front of my people. I hope that my opponent trained hard because I’m ready to brawl.
 
“I’m really excited to be back working on my boxing skills. I can’t wait to give my fans a great show. They know I always give it my all and leave it in the ring. I’m going to give my fans their money’s worth.”
 
LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions
 
“On Saturday night we have the biggest and baddest boxing card in the entire sport. It will be a great event right here in front of the passionate Brooklyn boxing fans.
 
“The main event has the four-division champion Broner taking on the two-division champion Vargas, in a fight that means a great deal to both fighters.
 
“Plus Jermall Charlo facing Hugo Centeno in a great middleweight fight to look to establish themselves as contenders in the star-studded middleweight class.
 
“The opener of our telecast will have a rising superstar in boxing in Gervonta Davis, battling former world champion Jesus Cuellar in an entertaining world title fight. This is what boxing is all about. It’s big time boxing here in Brooklyn.”
 
LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment
 
“This is a great fight card. That’s why tickets are selling. There are a lot of up-and-coming stars on this dais. It was put together to be great televised boxing, and that’s why we’ll have a full room on Saturday.
 
“Barclays Center truly is the home of big-time boxing. This is the venue with the most dedication to a regular boxing program and you see that with the great fights coming here month after month.
 
“This card is stacked from top to bottom. The off-television undercard is sensational and features a load of undefeated talent. Heather Hardy will make her return after two consecutive matches in the cage to step back into the ring on this show. We’re here to offer fans the best we can all night long.
 
“The first televised bout of the night has Gervonta Davis, one of the rising young stars of the sport, going for his second world title. He’s fighting a former world champion in Jesus Cuellar, who’s an accomplished guy in his own right. Gervonta has his hands full, but he’s going to have a lot of fans up from Maryland supporting him Saturday.
 
“There’s a lot of action and controversy in the middleweight division. Jermall Charlo might be the hardest puncher in that division. Him and his brother might be the most accomplished twins in the history of boxing already. He’s got a tough matchup because Hugo Centeno Jr. is also a terrific young fighter with power and great boxing ability. He has star potential if he can overcome this obstacle against Charlo.
 
“Adrien Broner is a terrifically skilled boxer, who has star power and brings a lot of attention. You don’t have to be loved by everybody, you have to have people want to see you. A lot of people want to see Adrien Broner. They’re going to see him in a tough fight on Saturday night. Jessie Vargas is already a two-time world champion, who’s had a terrific career and will arguably be the bigger and stronger guy on Saturday. Adrien knows that everything is on the line on Saturday night.”
 
STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President Sports & Events Programming, Showtime Sports Inc.
 
“SHOWTIME Boxing is in the midst of an unprecedented run. It has been meaningful fight after meaningful fight.
 
“Back in January we made an unprecedented announcement of 11 events this first part of the year. I’m not sure any network has done that many events this year.
 
“Barclays Center, like SHOWTIME, has become home to the most meaningful fights in the sport. This isn’t happening by accident. This is an intentional strategy. It’s a plan to promote and elevate the sport and its’ fighters to heights we haven’t seen before. We’ve put real effort into elevating this sport.
 
“Saturday’s stacked card has three must-see matchups. These are star fighters versus star battles. There are no ‘no-names’ in this. All six fighters here have headlined fights. These fights are as good as any card that I can remember.”
 
BRETT YORMARK, CEO of Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment
 
“I’m excited about Saturday night’s fights. It’s packed from top to bottom and should be a great night of BROOKLYN BOXING. It’s a great tripleheader and in many respects this defines Brooklyn boxing. Evenly matched fights, the biggest stars in the sport, some established and some on the rise. You have a bit of everything this weekend
 
“We are so thrilled to have Heather Hardy back at Barclays Center on Saturday after a few fights in MMA. She’s a boxer and we can’t wait to have her here this weekend.
 
“A big thank you for everyone who has helped establish BROOKLYN BOXING and been partners with us here in Brooklyn. Everyone involved continues to elevate the sport and we’re looking forward to seeing you on Saturday night. Tickets are moving and this could be one of the biggest fights we’ve ever had at Barclays Center.”

Jessie Vargas Las Vegas Media Workout Quotes & Photos
Jessie Vargas Las Vegas Media Workout Quotes & Photos
 
Former World Champion Battles Adrien Broner in Main Event Showdown Saturday, April 21 Live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center in Brooklyn & Presented by Premier Boxing Champions
 
Click HERE for Photos from John Gurzinsky/Mayweather Promotions
 
Click HERE for Photos from Leo Wilson/Premier Boxing Champions
 
LAS VEGAS (April 12, 2018) – Two-division world champion Jessie Vargas hosted a media workout in Las Vegas Thursday as he prepares for his main event showdown against four-division world champion Adrien Broner on Saturday, April 21 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING.
 
The Premier Boxing Champions event will also feature unbeaten former champion Jermall Charlo and once-beaten Hugo Centeno Jr. squaring-off for the WBC Interim 160-pound title. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with former world champions Gervonta Davis and Jesus Cuellar battling for the WBA 130-pound Super Featherweight World Championship.
 
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, DiBella Entertainment and TGB Promotions, start at $50 and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
 
The April 21 showdown against Broner will be Vargas’ second fight being guided by head trainer and former three-division world champion Mike “The Bodysnatcher” McCallum.
 
Vargas conducted the media workout from Mayweather Boxing Club as he prepares for the pivotal matchup against Broner. Here is what Vargas, McCallum and Mayweather Promotions CEO Leonard Ellerbe had to say Thursday:
 
JESSIE VARGAS
 
“Adrien Broner and I are entertaining fighters who come in and give it our all. This is a fight that will have a lot of fireworks.
 
“I brought in a nutritionist for camp who has done a great job informing me of some things that I’ve never done before in my career. I feel stronger and I’ve been finishing up this camp stronger than normal.
 
“If he comes to fight me on the inside then that’s going to feed right into my game plan. Bring it on. If he wants to come and fight, then we’ll pick him apart bit by bit. We’re ready for any type of fight. Once he feels my power, he’s going to back up and choose a better route.
 
“I’m going to switch it up. I’m here to give the fans entertainment. Some moments I’ll go after him and some moments I’ll be the counter-puncher. It’ll be based off what he brings to the ring and we’ll take it from there.
 
“If Broner feels that he’s going to perform better with coach Kevin Cunningham, then good for him. I want to face the best Adrien Broner. I don’t want any excuses after this. I’m looking forward to beating the best Broner possible on April 21.
 
“Adrien is fast and explosive, but we’re prepared for it. I have those same skills too. We’ve had great sparring including Devin Haney and Phil Lo Greco just to name a couple. These guys have been able to elevate my skills.
 
“I feel very fortunate that coach McCallum was able to take on the task of training me and I’m happy to be in my second fight with him. We feel like we’ve already accomplished so much in this relatively short amount of time we’ve been working together.
 
“Coach McCallum is a tremendous trainer who’s been able to teach me some different techniques. Obviously he’s known as ‘The Bodysnatcher’, so we’ve worked on body shots, but he also knew how to maintain his distance and he emphasizes the mental game. He tells me how he saw every situation during a fight.
 
“Throughout every round and every day coach is on top of me to make sure I’m feeling good and that my energy is at the right level. He tells me exactly what I need and it’s gotten me here and in the best shape of my career.
 
“This is a fight that should garner a lot of attention from boxing fans. They deserve a fight like this. It’s two guys coming in at the top of their game and only one of us can take this step forward in our career.
 
“I’m planning on having my hand-raised in victory. I’ve worked hard in camp so that I can go out there and prove to everyone that I’m a threat to any fighter out there.”
 
MIKE MCCALLUM, Vargas’ Trainer
 
“We picked up where we left off from Jessie’s last fight in December. He has all the tools he needs, I’m just here to make sure he knows how and when to use them in the ring.
 
“Everybody knows Broner is a good fighter. It’s going to be an exciting matchup because Jessie is in shape and ready to go.
 
“We’re ready to fight any kind of style that will beat Broner. We know we’re going to have to box, if he has to do it for 12 rounds, Jessie will be ready. Once they get in close, Jessie has a good punch too and that might surprise Broner.”
 
LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions
 
“This is the best card in the sport right now. The main event is a sensational bout. This is a 50-50 fight. Both guys need to win this. In Jessie’s case, this win will elevate him with the other elite welterweights that are out there.
 
“This is a huge fight. It’s a great fight for the fans and we’re very proud to be helping promote this event. It’s going to be a great night and thrilling main event.”

Adrien Broner & Gervonta Davis Exclusive Training Camp Quotes & Photos
Adrien Broner & Gervonta Davis Exclusive Training Camp
Quotes & Photos
 
Broner & Davis Talk Training Camp, Upcoming Matchups & More Ahead of Saturday, April 21 Showdowns Live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center in Brooklyn
 
Click HERE for Photos from Jose Pineiro/SHOWTIME
 
WEST PALM BEACH, FL (April 11, 2018) – Four-division world champion Adrien Broner and unbeaten former champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis shared updates from their training camp in West Palm Beach, Florida as they prepare for their respective showdowns on Saturday, April 21 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING.
 
The Premier Boxing Champions event is headlined by Adrien Broner battling former welterweight world champion Jessie Vargas in a 12-round bout. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features Davis meetingJesus Cuellar as they square off for the WBA 130-pound Super Featherweight World Championship plus undefeated former world champion Jermall Charlo clashing with once-beaten Hugo Centeno Jr. for the interim 160-pound world title.
 
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, DiBella Entertainment and TGB Promotions, start at $50 and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
 
Broner and Davis are sharing camp in West Palm Beach for the first time under the guidance of head trainer Kevin Cunningham, a former St. Louis police officer who has worked with former world champions Devon Alexander and Cory Spinks.
 
Here is what the fighters, plus coach Cunningham, had to say about camp, April 21 and more:
 
ADRIEN BRONER
 
On changing trainers…
“I felt like it was time to change. I hear people say, ‘You are expected to change but you don’t, that’s why you end up in the same spots over and over’. So, I have to change something to get a different result. That’s why I had to step outside of the box and go for it.
 
“I had to change things. I had to add to my repertoire because I’m getting all that I can do out of what I’m doing but I keep coming up short for these fights that I’m supposed to be winning. So, it was time for a change.
 
“Looking back at all of my defeats, the only real punishment that I’ve taken in this sport was against [Marcos] Maidana-I got a fractured jaw. In the Shawn Porter fight, he outwrestled me and in the Mikey [Garcia] fight, he just outworked me. So, it’s time to add to my team and that’s why I got coach Kevin Cunningham. He’s going to bring out the best of Adrien Broner.”
 
On why he chose Kevin Cunningham?
“I’ve known Coach Cunningham since my amateur days. We used to go up to St. Louis all the time and fight in his tournaments, on his shows. I have even fought for St. Louis in the Ringside Tournament. It was a great experience.
 
“I’ve known Coach Cunningham for a long time. He is the real deal He is not going to B.S. me. He’s going to keep me on my toes. I need that.
 
“There are coaches that change when their fighters get to certain levels. They still coach, but they don’t provide the structure the fighter needs. When I was fighting at 130, 135, Coach Mike [Stafford] will be at my door yelling ‘Get your butt up. We have to run. We have to train. Get up! Get up!’ But time went by and things changed.
 
“Coach Mike stopped being a coach and started being more of a friend. I needed him to keep being my coach. I need someone to keep me in line. Don’t get me wrong, he’ll always be like a father figure but when it comes to training and my career. I needed a change.”
 
On training camp…
“I’m very happy with this camp. It’s just what I needed. I’m catching up with sleep, eating well. The isolated training is really good. I love everything about this camp.
 
“Training in isolation is really good for me. I told everybody that they were not coming to Florida with me, that I will see them all after the fight and that if they really love me they will understand the situation and they will be cool with it.
 
“I actually did a camp with Coach Kevin before when Devon Alexander fought Timothy Bradley. And I’ve seen the way he is. We had our arguments and he cussed me out almost every day, but I was just missing the structure and that’s what I need.”
 
On how he felt after losing to Mikey Garcia…
“I was upset. At the end of the day, nobody fixes my problems but me. I can take care of everybody when they have a problem, but nobody fixes my problems. There are one or two people that are there for me but at the end of the day, I told myself I have to get my life and career together.”
 
Reflecting on his career…
“I started my career young. I won titles in four weight classes. I’ve accomplished a lot and there’s still more to come. I got a lot of fighting left to do.”
 
GERVONTA DAVIS
 
On why he decided to do training camp with Kevin Cunningham…
“I was actually going to go to Colorado to train, but Adrien invited me to come down here to West Palm Beach to check out the camp. He said I should come to Florida to train with him and Kevin. So I came down, I saw Kevin’s routine and I really liked it.
 
“There were a lot of distractions in Baltimore and I think they were a problem for me. I needed to straighten my head and focus on the things I have to work on. It was time to set my camp somewhere else.
 
“I needed a change after my last fight. I let myself down. I learned to be a different fighter, more responsible. I let others down, but think I let myself down more than anything.”
 
On becoming one of the youngest champions in boxing…
“I was one of the youngest world champions in boxing. It is not that I was not prepared for it. I was just so young and it happened so quickly. I had to adapt to it. Live up to the hype. It was hard.”
On his opponent, Jesus Cuellar…
“I’m not really into researching my opponents-or other fighters other than the ones that I like. I just train hard and fight who is in front of me.  I know a little bit about him [Jesus Cuellar]. I know that he can hit, that he’s not going to back down and that he’s a tough opponent. I believe he’s my toughest opponent to date. On April 21, we will see if he is ready. I know for sure I will be.”

On life in training camp when not at the gym…
“We have a big house that the coach provided for us. We all live together-Adrien and I. We go swimming and to the movies. We just chill. We are being responsible. No South Beach, no clubbing. Just training hard.”


On his relationship with Adrien Broner…
“What people don’t know is that I’ve been around Adrien since I was younger. I looked up to him. When Adrien came on the scene, he was super sharp and fast. I remember him. He used to come to the amateur tournaments.
 
“Adrien is like a big brother to me. We are just like a little brother, big brother. We are very competitive. We do not say it but we always want to outdo each other. For example, I usually run faster than he does, but sometimes he beats me. Yesterday he ran so fast I could not catch him. So today, I took the lead and ran even faster. We push each other to our best.”

On his plans for the future…

“I want to win more belts. I want to become a big star in boxing. I am going to put my work in the gym, put on a great performance in the ring and get back on track to become a world champion again.
  
“Being a world champion again is just a step closer towards my goal: I want to be a pay-per-view star. I want to be able to fight on pay-per-view against the big fighters and do big numbers.”
 
KEVIN CUNNINGHAM
 
On his relationship with Adrien Broner…
“I’ve known Adrian Broner for a very long time. I think I’ve known him since he was like eight years old and 60 pounds. He’s always been an extremely talented fighter. When he was a kid he was one of the most talented kids. He has always had boatloads of talent.”
 
On Broner’s shortcomings as a fighter…
“I think sometimes, he could be a little more focused and have a little more discipline in a lot of the different things he’s doing. I think he’s trying to turn the corner and get things moving in the right direction.”
 
On what caused Broner to come up short in recent big fights at higher weights…
“There are several things that could cause him to lose focus and come up a little short in some of the major fights. Some of it is the focus but there needs to be a little more discipline in terms of the training aspect and more structure. I think that’s what we’re working on here.”
 
On what he can do to improve Broner’s game…
“I think coming over here with me, he’s finding a lot more structure in the training aspect. It’s a totally different training program that I have him doing. I think that he’s ready for some new leadership. He’s ready to be a little more disciplined in his profession and I think it’s going to show on the 21st.”
 
On why this time will be different…
“I’ve heard from him like everybody has, but this time Broner really has done everything possible to rectify the situations that needed to be straightened out to help him propel his career and get back moving in the right direction – and it’s not just his boxing career; it’s also as a person – his personal life – and I’m here to help him out with that. He’s really working hard to get it right this time.”
 
On his history and background as a trainer and how it applies here…
“I’m known to be a stern and disciplined trainer, coach, and teacher. I’ve got a military and police background, so I don’t play a lot of games. We’re serious and we’re about business. When Broner made the decision to come with me, I knew that he was ready to take his career seriously because he knows what it’s like being here with me. He has to be about business, he has to be serious, and he has to be focused and disciplined. He made the choice to have me take over his training and take the lead as his head trainer and that’s what he’s getting when he’s dealing with me.”
 
On how he and Broner came together…
“A couple of weeks after the Mikey Garcia fight, he called me and he told me he was thinking about making some changes and that he wanted me to consider being his guide and taking the lead as head trainer. He asked me what I thought about that and I said, ‘You know what you’re getting when you come to me and if you’re going to be serious and focused about this, I’ll give you all I’ve got.’ And he said, ‘I’m serious.’ We started training together before camp started and I just saw a different look in his eyes. Ever since camp started he’s been nothing but hard work, dedication, and focus.”
 
On if he had any fears about their partnership…
“I told him upfront what I expected and what we needed to do and how things had to go. I told him that if he wasn’t ready to adhere to what I’m expecting, he shouldn’t waste his time or mine. He has done everything I’ve asked of him. Everything and more. He’s going to show that he’s ready to get himself together. He’s going to show the world on April 21 that he’s rededicated himself, he’s ready to reclaim the thrown.”