Andre Berto vs. Devon Alexander & Peter Quillin vs. J’Leon Love Final Press Conference Quotes & Photos

Andre Berto vs. Devon Alexander & Peter Quillin vs. J’Leon Love
Final Press Conference Quotes & Photos

Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes Live in Primetime this Saturday, August 4 from NYCB LIVE, Home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum

LONG ISLAND, NY. (August 2, 2018) – Former welterweight world champions Andre Berto and Devon Alexander went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference before their primetime main event Saturday, August 4 in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes from NYCB LIVE, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum.

Also competing on Saturday’s telecast that starts at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT and squaring-off Thursday were former champion Peter Quillin and super middleweight contender J’Leon Love. Additional action on FOX and FOX Deportes will feature rising unbeaten prospect Joey Spencer in a super welterweight attraction.

Headlining the FS2 and FOX Deportes telecast beginning at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. ET is unbeaten contender Marcus Browne of Staten Island, who takes on Lenin Castillo, and former champion Luis Collazo, who battles Bryant Perrella in welterweight action, who were both in attendance at Thursday’s press conference.

Competing in undercard action and participating in Thursday’s press conference in her hometown was WBA Super Middleweight Women’s World Champion Alicia Napoleon, who defends her title against Scotland’s Hannah Rankin.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, DiBella Entertainment and Mayweather Promotions, are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting http://www.ticketmaster.com, http://www.nycblive.com, or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the Ticketmaster Box Office at NYCB LIVE. Group discounts are available by calling 516-231-4848.

Here is what the participants had to say Thursday from The JetBlue Overlook at NYCB Live, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum:

ANDRE BERTO

“A lot of these people on this card have been guys I’ve been around since they were coming up. I’ve been in the game for a while and I’ve been cracking heads for a while.

“We had a tremendous training camp for this fight. I took time to rejuvenate myself and I’ve come back and gotten myself into great shape. I appreciate what Devon Alexander has been through, but he’s dealing with a different animal on Saturday night.

“I’ve pushed hard to give myself the best chance to win on Saturday. We’ve prepared for everything that we think Devon can bring. I’m physically and mentally prepared for a battle.

“I’m going to push Devon. I don’t think he’s fought any that brings what I do since he came back from his layoff. We’re going to see if he’s back. If he’s not ready, then I’m going to make it a long night for him.

“It’s all business on Saturday night. I’m really looking forward to it. It’s going to be dynamite. It’s going to be a good time.”

DEVON ALEXANDER

“I’m thankful that I can continue to fight, build my legacy and do something I love. I’m grateful to be here and show off my talent. I’m still writing my legacy and Berto is just another stepping stone in my way. I have to get past him.

“We had a great training camp down in Florida. Coach Cunningham has prepared me as well as for any fight in my career. The focus and dedication we put into camp will all show in the ring on fight night.

“Andre Berto was a great champion and I definitely respect what he’s done in this sport. Both of us need this win badly though and I’m sure neither of us will look to take a step back on our way to a victory.

“I love being in New York. I always get a lot of love from the fans, and they’re definitely a passionate group of fans. I’m going to be ready for the bright lights on Saturday.

“I have to thank Berto for accepting the challenge. We go way back to the amateur days. I’m up for the challenge. Everyone knows I will fight anybody. It’s going to be a great fight. There’s going to be fireworks.”

PETER QUILLIN

“I am more than ready for this fight. I have a lot of history with J’Leon Love. I’m going to be ready for him and it’s going to be a fight the fans won’t want to miss.

“I’m very blessed to be back in this position. Coach Sosa has really been a great gift for me. He’s helped me mentally and physically build on everything I had done with Virgil Hunter in the two years prior.

“Being back in New York definitely helps make me feel like I’ve made it back. I can be back in front of my fans, and most importantly my family, so that I can feel their support and let it carry me in the ring.

“We’ve worked on everything in camp and we’re ready to put on a show Saturday. I’m ready to show everyone that I still have what it takes to compete for a world title. This is something I’ve been looking forward to for a long time now.

JLEON LOVE

“I appreciate people coming out. I love coming to New York. This is a great card with so many great fighters and I’m grateful for the opportunity.

“I’ve been waiting for this for a long time. Come August 4, you will see me display my talent. I have nothing but respect for Peter Quillin, but this is why they call it the crossroads. We have to run into each other.

“I’m not worried about anything Peter has done in past fights. I’m prepared for the best Peter Quillin we’ve seen. He’s not going to catch me by surprise in there.

“I just have to be smart, listen to my corner and impose my game plan. I know that I have the skills to win and win convincingly. If I follow the game plan, I’m going to show everyone I’m ready for the best in the division.

“I’m excited to be back in New York. I’m planning on riding the energy from the crowd, whether it’s rooting against me or with me, and giving everyone something to remember.”

MARCUS BROWNE

“It’s been a while but I’m thankful to be back. I’m super ready to go in there on Saturday night and put on a show for you guys. I’m going to do what I do best, and keep my name in title contention.

“I know that my opponent is skilled and he’s going to be ready to try to upset me. But I’ve worked too hard in camp to let anyone walk into my home and beat me. It’s just not happening.

“I’ve made sure to just stay patient and know that my time is coming. I’m going to keep adding to my resume until there’s no one who can deny my shot.

“I’m trying to get this done impressively, but I’ll take the win however I can get it. At this point it’s about continuing to win so that I can keep myself at the top of the rankings. I want a world title shot and I’m ready for it.”

LUIS COLLAZO

“It’s great to be here. I want to give thanks for everyone who has helped me in the last 18 months while I recovered from my injury. It was hard, but it was a process I had to go to.

“My team has supported me through thick and thin no matter what I’ve been through. That included my dad, who originally brought me into the gym when I was a kid. This is just what I love to do.

“My opponent is young and desperate to put a name on his record. He’s got some skills that we’ve prepared for. I’m confident he doesn’t have anything I haven’t seen before.

“I’m ready to go to work on August 4. I’m going to give the fans a great fight and another night to remember with me in the ring.”

ALICIA NAPOLEON

“This is a big card with a lot of action and I’m proud to be on it. Hannah is a wonderful champion and this is going to be a great fight. This is a tremendous opportunity and we’re going to continue to push for better and better opportunities for female fighters.

“This is a fight you won’t want to miss. I’ve had a great camp and I’m prepared for another war. I won this title at Barclays Center in March and I can’t wait to see everyone out cheering for us on Saturday.

“It’s an honor to be fighting at home. I really take it to heart that there are young female fighters out there who watch me for inspiration. It helps motivate me and I believe it’s going to help me defend my title successfully on Saturday.”

HANNAH RANKIN

“It’s fantastic to be on such a great card. I’ve been looking for a big fight like this and it couldn’t have come at a better time for me.

“When I got the call for this fight I was obviously going to say yes. Camp has been amazing and I can’t wait to go in there on Saturday night and show everyone what I’m capable of.

“This is a worthy opponent and I’m glad that she accepted the challenge. I’ve come too far to leave New York without the championship belt.”

LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment

“This should be a sensational show on Saturday, live on FOX and FOX Deportes beginning at 7:30 p.m. ET. There is also a terrific show that actually begins on FS2 and FOX Deportes at 5:30 p.m. ET. This is a loaded card from top to bottom, as you can see from the dais here. It features a number of the best fighters in the world.

“The main event features two men in Andre Berto and Devon Alexander who are both multiple time world champions, well known fighters and fighters who need this win. The recipe for a great fight is two terrific boxers who must win.

“The co-featured event is a similar bout. Peter Quillin and J’Leon Love are guys who are in the championship picture at 168-pounds. The reality is the winner of this fight will have a chance to fight for the title soon.

“There’s a women’s title fight on this card that features Long Island’s only boxing world champion, in Alicia Napoleon. She’s a popular local fighter who is going to make the first defense of her title on Saturday. She will fight the pride of Scotland, in Hannah Rankin, in what should be a great bout. These are two champions of the sport and we’re honored to have them in the ring Saturday.”

 

Robert Easter, Javier Fortuna, Marcus Browne & Adam Kownacki Media Conference Call Transcript & Audio Recording

Robert Easter, Javier Fortuna, Marcus Browne & Adam Kownacki Media Conference Call Transcript & Audio Recording
 
Click HERE for Audio Transcript
Lou DiBella         
Thanks for joining us.  Greetings from the blizzard in New York City.  I know that Marcus Browne and Adam Kownacki are both local right now, so they’re experiencing this insanity with me, and I guess a lot of you are also.  So we’re going to try to warm up this blizzard afternoon and talk boxing for a little bit.
Errol Spence versus Lamont Peterson, terrific fight Saturday, January 20, 2018 on SHOWTIME, 9 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT, presented by Premier Boxing Champions and of course at the beautiful Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.
Tickets for the event are priced starting at 50 bucks, and they can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com, BarclaysCenter.com, the box office at Barclays Center or by calling 800-745-3000.
We have a terrific undercard, and we’re going to talk to the principals on that undercard on this call.  We’re going to start with two gentlemen that are going to be in two fights that are going to start our televised evening off on SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing’s Facebook page.
Marcus Browne, 20-0, 15 KOs in Staten Island, New York, coming off a sensational knockout of Seanie Monaghan, rated Number 3 by the WBC, 7 by the WBA, 6 by the IBF, 4 by the WBO.  One of the rising stars at light heavyweight, making his 12th appearance at the Barclays Center and pretty much fighting and waiting out his chance for a huge fight and a world title fight that will be coming, I think, shortly in 2018.
But first he’s got to get past the tough Francy Ntetu.  Ntetu is 17-1.  His only loss was at the Barclays Center in a hotly contested bout with David Benavidez, the WBC 168-pound champion.  The fight was stopped very controversially.  Ntetu is a legitimate guy and a guy that’s going to try to test Marcus Browne.
But in getting in the ring with Marcus Browne, he’s getting in with one of the very, very best in the world. Marcus, want to say a couple words?
Marcus Browne
Thank you guys.  How you doing?  Most importantly, I’m just honored to be able to continue my career on the undercard with guys like Robert Easter, Jr., Adam, myself, and a couple other young fighters.
I know Francy’s a very tough, tough live game guy and we’re prepared for that.  And we’re prepared for what he brings to the table.  Come January 20, I just can’t wait to go to work, show my skills and continue that march towards the world title.
This is a guy that that’s definitely going to test me.  He’s definitely going to be there all night and we got to convince him to not be there.  That’s the plan.
L. DiBella            
Thanks Marcus. Marcus has really been one of the cogs of the BROOKLYN BOXING®program at Barclays Center.  This will be Marcus’s 12th appearance at Barclays Center.  So he’s one of the fighters that’s brought the most in the building.
The other fighter on the stream telecast is one of the up-and-coming young heavyweights in the world.  He’s already got a huge fan base with Polish fans and Polish-American fans.  He’s got a history as a New York Golden Gloves fighter and a young fighter that’s been developed in the New York area, Adam Kownacki, 16-0, 13 KOs, out of Brooklyn.
Born in Lomza, Poland and he moved to Brooklyn with his family when he was 7-years old.  Two-time Golden Gloves champion, rated Number 13 by the WBC.  In his last fight, he had a sensational four-round knockout of world title challenger Artur Szpilka.  That was on the same show that Marcus fought at at the Nassau Coliseum.
On the 20th of January, he’s going to take on a tough kid Iago Kiladze, Number 15 in the IBF.  Kiladze is 26-1 with 18 KOs. This is really another step in the road for Adam toward a heavyweight championship opportunity.  Adam?
Adam Kownacki
Thanks for the introductions Lou. I can’t wait to get back in the rings on January 20.  I would say I’m very hard.  I’m ready to shine and prove that I belong with the best heavyweights in the world.  This fight will take me one step closer to being heavyweight champion of the world. I’ll prove it once again on January 20 that we’re ready to fight with these top-notch heavyweights. I’ll keep climbing up the ranks.
Q
Adam, how much do you feel that your win against Szpilka kind of legitimized you in being a heavyweight contender and show people that you might be ready for a title shot?
A. Kownacki       
I think I showed that I’m ready to shine at the bigger stage.  It took Deontay Wilder ten rounds to take Szpilka out of there.  It took me four.  So that was a big statement, and I’ll continue to improve on that statement on January 20.
Q
Obviously Deontay Wilder fights a lot at Barclays Center.  It’s a place where you’ve also fought a lot.  He’s probably going to fight there on March 3.  But how much have you thought about the possibility of somewhere down the line maybe you challenging Deontay for the WBC title there?
A. Kownacki
My goal is to be world champion.  Whoever has the title, that’s who I want.  If it’s Deontay, then it’s Deontay.
Q
Marcus, what do you know about your opponent specifically since I know you just got him secured a couple weeks ago?  But what have you been able to find out about him and what he brings to the table?
M. Browne          
He’s a real scrappy guy in the category of a Sakio Bika kind of.  He’ll make a fight ugly if you allow him to do it.  Another thing is he throws a high line of punches and he’s real crafty.  He may not look like what he seems in the ring on tape.
So I’m just prepared and ready for whatever he brings that night.  And I’m just ready to implement our game plan that we have in order to break him down.
Q
Marcus, you obviously had a very good 2017 with some spectacular wins on your record.  How important is it for you to kind of start this year off in a similar way and build toward a title shot later in the year?
M. Browne
It’s super important because at the end of the day this is the first actual big card of the year.  I have to put the light heavyweights out there on notice that I’m here and I’m not playing.
Q
Marcus is there one guy more than the other that you want to fight or is it just whoever gives you the opportunity to fight for the title?
M. Browne
No, no one guy more than the other.  I’m just ready and willing and waiting my turn for whoever gives me the chance at fighting.  And I have no picks.  I ain’t got no favorites right now.  It is what it is.  I’m at the point where you either eat or get ate, and I’m ready to eat.
Q
Hey Lou, can you speak on how far Marcus has come and maybe where he’s now in position to get a title shot later this year?
L. DiBella
I think when you look at the light heavyweight division there’s a tremendous demand for quality contenders, guys capable of taking on the top of the division.  It’s sort of a division that’s got a little bit heavy at the top and there aren’t a lot of Marcus Brownes.
Marcus is one of the elite prospects in the division.  But he’s past the point of prospects.  He’s really at the point of contender right now just waiting for the biggest fight out there to materialize.
There’s some big light heavyweight fights on the horizon.  Some of them I think will be announced fairly soon. I think in 2018 Marcus is going to get that huge opportunity. He deserves it because he’s really in that handful of top guys.
There are the champions and there’s like a handful of other guys out there.  And those guys are all going to be competing in the next year and Marcus is going to get that opportunity.  He’s also a professional.  He knows he has to take care of business on January 20.
Ntetu, who’s moving up in weight for this chance, really doesn’t have anything to lose.  So Marcus can’t look past that.  He’s just going to go out there, do his thing.  He knows that the title shot is waiting for him later this year.
Q
Can you speak on what Adam showed in the Szpilka fight, especially getting rid of him the way that he did and kind of opening some people’s eyes in that fight?
L. DiBella            
I love Adam as a fighter.  I’ve always loved Adam as a fighter.  He’s a tremendously skilled boxer for a heavyweight.  His natural build is not like King Kong.  So people look at him and they tend to underestimate them.  But what he has is everything – movement, speed, power, boxing skills.
This guy’s a legitimate heavyweight contender, like not like only just a prospect.  He’s a legitimate heavyweight contender, and he showed that when he wiped out Szpilka.  He didn’t just beat Szpilka, he destroyed Szpilka.  No one expected that kind of victory.
Artur Szpilka was a perennial top 10, 15 kind of guy in recent years and a guy that everyone viewed as a tough, rugged heavyweight, certainly a huge test for a young heavyweight. Adam didn’t only pass the test.  Adam blew him out of the ring.
In my mind, a couple of more performances like that just keeping the winning track he’s on is going to earn Adam a shot at a world title, particularly with the huge following he has in the Polish and Polish-American communities and the number of people he can bring out when he does eventually challenge for a title, particularly if that bout takes place at the Barclays Center.
Q
Against Szpilka, were you were sure that you were going to do what you did to him?
A. Kownacki
Yes, I told you that before it happened.  I’m a man on a mission.  That mission is becoming the first Polish, Polish-American heavyweight champion of the world.  No one will stop me.
Q
It seems like you have a killer instinct in you that no one really sees until you like get into the ring.  Can you talk about that?
A. Kownacki
Yes, as humbly as I can say it, I’m blessed with the talent that God has given me with boxing. I’m trying to build on this, maximize my potential and give my family a better life.  But like you said, boxing is a war zone.  We put our lives on the line when we fight.  So it’s me or him, and I’m just going to keep putting the pressure on guys and making them fold.
Q
What have you heard from the Polish community since that fight? How much has that inspired you further?
A. Kownacki       
A lot of doubters turned to believers.  I was in Poland a month ago.  The love I got there was ridiculous. I really liked that. I have to keep working hard, keep training hard and my goal is be world champion.
So I’m very focused on Iago Kiladze right now. I have to pass this next test on January 20 on my way to become world champion.
Q
Marcus, what does it mean for you to fight in your home state?
M. Browne
At this point, being an Olympian and just being an amateur who fought in different countries, the earth is my turf. Of course it’s cool to fight in New York and it’s a plus.
But it’s annoying at the same time because people ask you for tickets and things of that nature.
So I’m just at the point in my career where I’m just blessed to have the opportunity to fight in general. Fighting in New York is great though.  It’s always a great thing to come out and see your people, your family and your friends. But where I’m at in my career right now and mentally, I really don’t care where I’m fighting honestly.
Piggybacking off of Adam, we’re all on missions.  His mission is to be the first Polish heavyweight champion and mine is to be the first world champion from where I’m from. We’re on that mission and nothing going to stop that.  Whether it’s fighting in New York, Guam, or Dubai, it doesn’t matter.
Q
Marcus, your last fight in Brooklyn, there wasn’t the definitive victory that you wanted. Do you want to return to Brooklyn and be more definitive than that?
M. Browne          
Correct. There’s no pressure for me honestly.  At the end of the day, we got the win and, everybody has their opinions and everyone’s entitled to their opinions.
But I’m just ready to go in there, implement our game plan, not put on a show for anybody, be defensively sound, be smart and take care of business and just break the tough guy down.
He doesn’t come to play.  He comes to work and he’s a real live game guy.  He’s not going to give you nothing so you got to take it.  And that’s where I’m at with it mentally, physically and spiritually at this point in my career.
I don’t really have anything to prove to anybody. I’m going to just let my skills speak for themselves and not put pressure on myself to do anything that I don’t need to.
Q
But wouldn’t it be nice to keep that streak going?
M. Browne          
Of course. It’s always good to knock this guy out.  But like the great Bernard Hopkins always told me, take them how they come because they’re all not going to be that easy. So I’m just prepared. I’m prepared for however many rounds we’ve scheduled to fight.
If a knockout comes, it comes.  I’ll be implementing our game plan and setting him up and doing what I got to do.  I’m not forcing any issues. Because that’s when you get caught up with lunging and fighting outside of yourself and trying to impress people.
I’m going to just stay within myself and be the best Marcus Browne on January 20.  I can’t wait to fight.
L. DiBella            
One other thing to clarify.  You said that Ntetu had been knocked out in his last time at Barclays Center.  If you watched the fight, the fight was stopped in a tremendously controversial manner that caused the SHOWTIME announcers to call it one of the strangest stoppages they’d seen.  No disrespect to the winner of the fight but I would say if Marcus was able to knock out Ntetu on January 20, he’d be the first person who ever did that.
Q                          
Marcus, you look really on the cusp of a major fight. If the two most likely fighters you’d fight I would assume would be Adonis Stevenson and Badou Jack.  Just wondered if you could give your quick thoughts on each of those fighters.
M. Browne          
Quick thoughts on each of those fighters.  I’m super focused.  I’m not super locked-in on Francy Ntetu at this point. I’m a fighter at heart.  So I don’t see no special effects in either of those guys. Adonis is super strong.  Badou is a work horse.  He comes and he works.
But I don’t see any of them beating me personally. Speak to me after January 20.  Then we’ll talk about it more.  We can elaborate on it more, but at this point I’m focused on Francy. Those guys are definitely in my sights and I don’t really see nothing crazy impressive.
Q
Adam, can you talk about what we can expect in the fight with Kiladze?  Kiladze had been a cruiserweight up until a few years ago.  How will that affect your weight and what can we expect for this fight?
A. Kownacki
Like you said, Iago was a cruiserweight. I’m a real heavyweight, so he will feel the difference in the size.  I plan to be around 250 come fight day.  I’m in great shape though.  Sparring ten rounds easily.
I put in great work with a lot of great guys.  I’m going to have Bryant Jennings come spar with me. I’ll do what I did to Szpilka, get on the W and keep proving myself.
Q
Adam, where do you think you are in the heavyweight division?  Because this year we’re going to see a lot of talk of various title fights, maybe unification fights and all of that.  Where are you in the picture and what’s your timeline for getting a title shot?
A. Kownacki       
I’m on top. It’s just a matter of time till I get my shot to prove it. That’s what my mind’s telling me. I think I’m the best heavyweight fighter.  It’ll take fight after fight to prove it. Iago has it coming on January 20.
Q
Do you want to make a prediction for that fight with Kiladze?
A. Kownacki
Listen, like I always say, if I don’t knock him out, then I’ll take the punishment for ten rounds.
L. DiBella            
So let’s start with Robert Easter.  The IBF lightweight champion 20-0, 14 KOs, proudly represents Toledo, Ohio, where he’s got a huge following.  A lot of his fans travel, so Robert I know we’re going to see a lot of your fans from Toledo there at Barclays Center on January 20.
This is his return to the Barclays Center for the first time since his fifth pro fight in 2013.  He won the IBF lightweight title in September ’16 in a terrific fight against very talented Richard Commey.  He defended that belt twice by unanimous decision since then.
Trained by his dad Robert, Sr., and he was a U.S. Olympic Team alternate in 2012.  The IBF lightweight champion of the world and one of the best young fighters of the world, Robert Easter.
Robert Easter     
It’s always a pleasure to fight in Brooklyn in front of my fans on the East Coast. I have a big fan base out there.  You’re going to expect the same or even greater in this fight for me. Another victory, it may come by knockout.  It may come by knockout.
Q
Do you feel like you are a little bit of a forgotten guy in your weight division and you want to wake people up to the fact that you shouldn’t be?
R. Easter             
I wouldn’t actually say I’m the forgotten guy. I’m just the guy they don’t want to fight. You heard these interviews, these guys talking.  They always bring up everybody else names except for mine.  You cannot forget about me.
I’m tallest in the weight class, maybe the fastest and probably one of the strongest.  Of course they’re not going to mention my name because they don’t want to fight me. I’ve been calling these guys out.  I know they see that.  So how can they not acknowledge that.
Jorge Linares and Mikey Garcia, they’re doing their thing.  They’re winning these fights like champions supposed to.  But it’s time we unify these titles like I’ve been trying to do.
Q
Can you tell me from your side of things how serious that discussion about fighting Mikey Garcia was and what that was about?
R. Easter             
I wanted to fight.  It was serious on my side.  I wanted to fight.  I didn’t care where at.  I don’t care about any of that.  I wanted to fight.
At first it was I didn’t produce enough fans or the fight didn’t make sense, which that didn’t make sense, and some other excuses the guy came up with.  But like I said, I was ready to fight whenever, whatever, how much.  It didn’t even matter.
We didn’t actually get an offer. I guess they made an offer towards him.  Like I said, I didn’t really care.
Q
Do you feel like you’re just a huge favored in this fight against the smaller guy?
R. Easter             
Yes.  But, I’m taller than most of my opponents.  That’s nothing new.  Of course I’m the favorite.  I’m the champion.  And he’s a former world champion.
These guys haven’t faced nobody with the skills of mine so you’re going to see another great performance from me in this fight.
I would like to make the same statement I’ve been making and that’s why these guys are scared to fight me.
Q
How much longer do you think you can hold 135?
R. Easter             
I can hold it just as long as they want me to.  But like I said, I’m trying to unify these titles and then move up after that until my goal is reached. For now, I’m going to be at 135, giving these guys trouble.
L. DiBella            
Javier Fortuna, 33-1-1 with 23 KOs.  Born in the Dominican Republic.  Now lives in Braintree, Massachusetts.  Promoted by the illustrious Sampson Lewkowicz and Sampson Boxing.  He’s a former two-time, two-division world champion.
He was a champion at featherweight and at super featherweight.  Now he’s moving up to lightweight to challenge Robert Easter, Jr.  So translator, if you could ask Javier to say a few words please.
Javier Fortuna
Good afternoon.  God bless everyone. I’m very happy and fortunate that Robert Easter gave him the opportunity to fight for the world title. Nevertheless, it will be the end of his reign. I know he has his fans.  He’s a champion.  My goal is to become world champion again.
Q
If you win this fight here against Fortuna, do you think it’s realistic that some of the other guys will give you the chance?
R. Easter             
When I win this fight. I don’t know.  I’ve been calling these guys out for a while.  It’s kind of up to them.  I’ve been sitting back, taking these mandatory fights and fights that really don’t make sense like unifying the titles will.
Hopefully all the champions meet up and fight.  So when I win this fight, hopefully.
Q
If you aren’t going to get the chance to fight one of the other 135 guys, is it possible that you go up to 140 for your next fight?
R. Easter             
I don’t know.  We’re going to sit back and talk to my camp and we’re going to see what’s the best move after that.
Q
Looking at Fortuna, he’s obviously a leftie, is there anything that you have to do training-wise or that you have done training-wise in preparation for him?
R. Easter
I’ve been facing left-handers my whole career, amateur and pro. I have to make a few adjustments.  That’s what professionals do when they get in the ring.  That’s why I really don’t study tapes or nothing because they might not fight you the same as what they fought the last person or how they fought an orthodox fighter.
So it’s all about making adjustments once you get in that ring.  Whenever I’m in the gym I always give it 110% and I always train till I ain’t got no more left in the gym.
Q
When you’re looking at this fight going into it, what’s the thing more than anything else that you want to gain from fighting Fortuna?
R. Easter
Just keep putting on like I’ve been putting on.  He’s going out there making these statements, telling people that “I can’t be beat.”  Not only him but these other fighters.  As you can see, none of the champions are heading my way, so obviously I’m doing something right.
Q
Do you get a sense maybe the Mikey Garcia fight might not happen for you because he doesn’t necessarily want it for one reason or another?
R. Easter             
I’m sensing that.  But if both camps come to agreement, I’m hoping we can face off one day – not only Mikey though.  You still have Jorge.  You still have him.  He’s still a champion as well.
Q
Are you looking at it may be like if Garcia decides to stay at 140 pounds that the Linares fight is a fight that you could make for your next fight assuming you win on January 20 also?
R. Easter             
Of course.  It doesn’t matter if he stayed or he didn’t.  I still wanted that fight.  Like I said, I’ve been ready to unify these titles for so long.  I’ve been sitting back waiting not only on Mikey but the other champions.  Flanagan, he has moved up.  And now we have Linares.
Q
What do you think of Linares from what you’ve seen from him?
R. Easter             
He’s a crafty fighter, fast, moves a lot, but nothing I haven’t seen before.  He’s nothing special I haven’t seen before.
Q
Fortuna’s obviously said a lot of things over the last week or so about knocking you out and the referee’s going to have to save you and things like that.  What do you make of it?
R. Easter             
Those are things he’s supposed to say.  He’s supposed to hype himself up, and he’s supposed to hype the fight up.  But he and his camp knows the truth.  They know what they’re getting themselves into. I don’t really have to trash talk.  My work is done in the ring. January 20 we’re all going to see that.
Q
Javier what do you think about Easter and why do you thinks it’s a fight that you’lll be able to win by knockout, maybe some of the flaws or whatever you feel are weaknesses that Robert has?
J. Fortuna
So of course he’s a tall fighter but it’s also very convenient to me. I feel that he won’t be able to hold my punches, the power of them. In this fight I’ll come more focused than any other fight.
I want to tell Easter that hopefully, there’s no excuses with him or his camp.  I want the best Easter that could possibly come to fight.
Q
Robert what’s your response to that?
R. Easter             
Like I said, he’s supposed to hype himself up. I never have made excuses in the ring. My record is perfect. I’m doing what I’m supposed to do, and I’m winning these fights. He’s trying to get where I’m at.  He’s trying to get another shot which is going to fail coming January 20.
Like I said, he’s supposed to hype himself up.  All this talk, I don’t get into none of that.  Everybody has a game plan till they get hit.
Q
Javier you’re viewed as an underdog in this fight.  How much has that motivated you?
J. Fortuna
That does motivate me much more. It gives me the opportunity to concentrate that much more.  I’ve been the underdog a few times. Like the Omar Douglas fight, I surprised everybody in his hometown.
I would have liked for this fight to be in Ohio. That would have been much better for me because I perform better under pressure.
Q
What do you think of Robert’s last couple of fights?
J. Fortuna
I figure he’ll be a little better now because if he comes the way he fought his last fight, he won’t reach the fifth round.        He’s got to reinvent himself because if he doesn’t, he won’t go far.
Q
So Robert do you think that this is just hyping the fight, or do you feel he has the power to knock you out?
R. Easter
Of course they’re just hyping the fight.  He has had power in the lower weight classes.  But like I said, all that goes out the window once you get hit.  Once he gets hit by what I’m bringing, then all that talking is going to go out the window.
He hasn’t faced nobody with the skills I have.  He’s been knocked out for one.  He’s telling me I got to reinvent myself.  He has to reinvest himself.  You know, that’s why he’s trying to become a champion again as you said.  You know, so I’m already a champion.  I’m already in the shoes he wants to be in.
January 20 we’re going to put the gloves on. We’re going to get in that ring and I’m going to come out victorious like I’ve been doing.
Q
Do you feel that you can put together an offer to those other parties like Garcia and Linares to bring the fight to your hometown where you are popular?
R. Easter
That’s just a lame excuse to say when I fight, I don’t produce enough fans.  What does Lipinets do?  No disrespect to him, but come on now.  Everybody knows that is not true.
I have fans all over. My fan base is big, and it doesn’t matter we if we fought in a room with nobody.  It shouldn’t even matter to both parties, is the money good and the contract’s good, then we should fight.  I wouldn’t care about fighting in front of nobody because I know what I’m going to do.
Q
When it comes specifically to the Mikey Garcia fight, is there maybe something personal there because of your promotion/affiliation with About Billions and Broner having that last fight with Mikey?  What is it that you see or seem that you feel that you can do better than your big bro?
R. Easter             
This has nothing to do with AB.  This has everything to do with Mikey being a champion at 135 and Jorge Linares being a champion at 135. It’s time to unify.
If I was that much of an easy fight for them, the fight would have been made.  After the offer they gave Mikey, it would have been made.  It just didn’t make sense.  I don’t make no excuses.  I’m coming to fight and they know that.
Q
Do you think that maybe Robert is overlooking you and can you capitalize on that?
J. Fortuna
I’m just trying to get in position to fight Garcia.  January 20 there will be history made in Dominican Republic because from what Easter said about me being knocked out, that never happened to me.  I’ve been hurt but that never happened to me, so he got to look out for that.
Q
So can you just express to us how comfortable you’re going to feel at 135?
J. Fortuna
I’m going to be super good at 135 because I am very close to weight and I’ve made that weight a few times already in the last couple fights. I feel a lot stronger and a lot more prepared for this fight.
Q
Robert, just wondering if you can talk about your connection to your fans in Toledo and if you expect a good turnout at Barclays Center?
R. Easter             
My connection to my hometown fans, my fans is important. I try to respond to almost each and every person who reaches out.  People be so amazed that I do say something back on Twitter or Instagram or Snapchat.
All my fans is real, especially my hometown fans.  They love traveling to see me fight because they know where I come from.  We all grew up together. I’m first hand here.
I’m one of the only things they got that’s still here, that’s hands on with them.  So they come and show support.  I love that they always step out whenever they know I’m fighting.
Q
You had good offensive performances in your last three fights but couldn’t get a stoppage.  So Javier is a very tough opponent but I’m just wondering if you’re gunning for a knockout, if you’re motivated to try to get back on the knockout track?
R. Easter             
Shafikov was a tough opponent. Richard Commey was a tough opponent. Cruz is tough.  All these guys are tough.  We’re preparing.  We’re making adjustments in the ring.  And if a knockout comes, it comes.
I’m not going to shoot for a knockout, but I know I’m going to set something up to where I can knock him out.  But like I said, if it comes, it comes.  But ain’t no way he’s going to beat me.  He knows that.  His camp knows that.
Q
Javier I’m just wondering why type of sparring you’re doing in preparation for this, if you’re fighting bigger guys?  If so, what weight classes they’re coming from? Because there really aren’t many guys at 135 who are that tall.
J. Fortuna
All the fighters that are helping me out sparring they’re 135, 140 and they’re part of my team.
I understand what Robert is saying that he’s more skillful but he can have more skill.  He could have whatever he thinks he have.  But he’s not going to have my will to win. The only way I can demonstrate it is in the ring.
L. DiBella            
I think that’s right and we’re going to get the answer in the ring when champion Robert Easter takes on the challenge of Javier Fortuna.  I think we’ve done enough talking for a snowy Thursday afternoon.  Thanks everybody for joining us.  Robert, thank you.  Thank you, Javier. We’ll see you both fight week.  And thanks everybody in the press.
Once again, tickets are on sale Barclays Center box office, Ticketmaster.com, BarclaysCenter.com.  We hope everybody joins us at the Barclays Center on January 20 for a great night of boxing presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
And if they can’t be there, SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING starting at 9:00 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with the earlier bouts featuring Marcus Browne and Adam Kownacki to take place on SHOWTIME’s Facebook page stream and SHOWTIME’s YouTube channel.  So I look forward to seeing everybody fight week and brave the storm.

Unbeaten Omar Figueroa Drops Former Champion Robert Guerrero Five Times On His Way to Third-Round TKO

Unbeaten Omar Figueroa Drops Former Champion Robert Guerrero Five Times On His Way to Third-Round TKO in the Main Event of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes Saturday Night from NYCB
LIVE’s Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum on Long Island

 

Unbeaten Marcus Browne Scores Dominant Second-Round Stoppage of Previously Undefeated Seanie Monaghan in Light Heavyweight Battle

&

Adam Kownacki Remains Unbeaten With Fourth-Round TKO Over Artur Szpilka in Matchup of Polish Heavyweights

 

Click
HERE
for Photos from Ryan Greene/Premier Boxing Champions

 

Click
HERE
for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment

 

LONG ISLAND, NY
(July 15, 2017) – Unbeaten
Omar Figueroa (27-0-1, 19 KOs) returned to the ring in emphatic fashion with a third-round stoppage of former champion Robert Guerrero (33-6-1, 18 KOs) in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday night from the
newly-renovated
NYCB LIVE, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. The show was the first major boxing event to take place at the Coliseum in 31 years.

 

The former world champion Figueroa returned to the ring after a 19-month layoff and hardly missed a beat, as he sent Guerrero to the canvas five times over the three rounds and became the first fighter to ever stop Guerrero.

 

“We knew that it was going to be tough to accomplish but I had obviously trained to get the knockout,” said Figueroa.” With my hands finally being healthy, we knew
that it was actually possible.

 

After winning the first round on all three judges’ scorecards, Guerrero continued to fight Figueroa from the inside and attempted to punish him with power shots. However, it was Figueroa who landed the first decisive blow of the fight, a scorching left uppercut that sent Guerrero immediately to the floor.

 

“I haven’t fought this way in a long time because I didn’t have the power in my hands,” said Figueroa. “I’ll always find a way to come out on top though.”

 

Figueroa continued to attack, putting Guerrero down for a second time with a body shot and once more with a glancing shot right before the end of the round. Guerrero looked to blitz Figueroa to
start the third round and immediately had Figueroa cornered.

 

“After the first knockdown I knew that the instinct would kick-in for him and he’d go all out,” said Figueroa. “I thought it was going to be over after the first
knockdown of the second round but the ref let it keep going.

 

“I’ve been working since January so I’m going to take some time off,” continued Figueroa. “Then I’m going to get back into camp to get back to 140-pounds. I want
to be back in the ring by the end of the year.”

 

The unbeaten fighter was able to turn the tide quickly however, putting Guerrero down twice more with strong flurries before referee Ron Lipton waved off the bout 1:34 into the round. After
the bout, Guerrero was taken to Nassau University Medical Center for precautionary reasons.

 

Unbeaten 2012 U.S. Olympian Marcus Browne (20-0, 15 KOs) continued to solidify his status as a world title contender with an electrifying stoppage of previously undefeated
Seanie Monaghan (28-1, 17 KOs) in the second-round of their light heavyweight battle.

 

Despite fighting in front of a friendly crowd in his native Long IslandMonaghan struggled from the start as a blistering left hand from Browne sent him to the canvas early in the first round. Monaghan was quickly in survival mode and was aided when referee Steve Willis halted the bout after deeming that Browne had connected with an accidental low blow while looking to finish his opponent.

 

“I could tell that I hurt him, but I didn’t want to rush and walk into anything,” said Browne. “I just took my time and allowed everything to fall into place.”

 

“It was an honor for me to represent Long Island,” said Monaghan. “I knew that it was a big task tonight. Marcus is even faster than in sparring. I’ll be alright though, I’m happy that if I had to lose, it was to a guy the quality of Marcus Browne.”

 

Monaghan was able to recover and eventually make it through the round, but Browne put his foot on the gas pedal to begin round two. Browne was able to trap Monaghan against the ropes and delivered a crushing series of body blows and chopping shots that caused Monaghan to hunch over. The onslaught eventually forced the referee to call a halt to the bout 40 seconds into the round.

 

“I’m honored and blessed to be a part of this event and I just want to move upwards and onward from here,” said Browne. “I want a date with Adonis Stevenson next. It’s amazing to have this kind of exposure on FOX and FOX Deportes. I loved the opportunity to make new fans tonight.”

 

“Marcus has always been a fast starter,” said Monaghan. “He always comes out very fast. I thought I was ready for the speed, but he is very skilled. I think he’s going to go a long way.”

 

In front of a large contingent of his hometown fans, Adam Kownacki (16-0, 13 KOs) put on an impressive performance against his best opposition to date by scoring a fourth-round TKO of former title challenger Artur Szpilka (20-3, 15 KOs) in their heavyweight showdown.

 

“I always knew that I had him,” said Kownacki. “From the first shot I hit him in the body, I knew he didn’t have enough. My pressure was too much.”

 

The fight began with both men looking to impose their styles as Szpilka attempted to establish his jab and evade his opponent, while Kownacki tried to trap Szpilka in a corner where he could tee-off with power punches.

 

Despite his left eye swelling up after two rounds, Kownacki was able to take the first bit of momentum by connecting late in round three with a series of power shots that appeared to at least shake Szpilka up.

 

As the fourth round began Kownacki wasted no time, landing a big punch that caused blood to start pouring out of the nose of Szpilka. While the former title challenger tried to keep his distance,
the heavier Kownacki was able to land a series of power punches that put Szpilka on the canvas.

 

“I have a great trainer and a great team that has gotten me into great shape,” said Kownacki. “I have to give them all of the credit. Whatever he was doing, I was
ready for.”

 

While Szpilka was able to get to his feet, Kownacki continued to keep the pressure on as another series of power punches, led by a strong right hand, sent Szpilka into a heap and forced referee
Artur Mercante to stop the bout 1:37 into the round. Kownacki landed 42 percent of his power punches in the decisive fourth round.

 

“It took Deontay Wilder and Bryant Jennings a lot longer to get him out of there,” said Kownacki. “But I still have things that I’m going to go back and fix. Once
I improve those aspects of my game I think that a lot of people are going to know me.”

 

“He hit me once with a good shot and after that I just never recovered,” said Szpilka. “I think it was a left hook. I’m going to rest now. This was not how I wanted this to go and
I’m very disappointed.”

Final Press Conference Quotes & Photos Omar Figueroa vs. Robert Guerrero, Marcus Browne vs. Seanie Monaghan & Artur Szpilka vs. Adam Kownacki 

Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes

Final Press Conference Quotes & Photos

 

Omar Figueroa vs. Robert Guerrero, Marcus Browne vs. Seanie Monaghan & Artur Szpilka vs. Adam Kownacki Tripleheader This Saturday, July 15 from NYCB LIVE’s Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum on
Long Island

 

Click
HERE
for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment

 

MANHATTAN (July 12, 2017) – Former world champions Omar Figueroa and Robert Guerrero went face-to-face Wednesday at the final press conference before Saturday’s Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes tripleheader taking place at the newly-renovated NYCB LIVE, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum.

 

Also in attendance Wednesday and competing in televised action beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT were unbeaten light heavyweights Marcus Browne and Seanie Monaghan plus Polish heavyweights Artur Szpilka and Adam Kownacki.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com,
www.nycblive.com, or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the Ticketmaster Box Office at NYCB LIVE.
Group discounts are available by calling 516-231-4848.

 

Additional action on Saturday begins on FS1 and FOX Deportes at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will feature a welterweight matchup between Jamal James and Jo Jo Dan, plus unbeaten prospect Brandon Figueroa, brother of Omar Figueroa, who was in attendance Wednesday and will face
Eliezer Aquino.

 

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Wednesday from Gallagher’s Steakhouse in Manhattan:

 

OMAR FIGUEROA

 

“We know that Guerrero is a tough guy and it’s going to be a rough fight. We prepared really well to go 12-rounds and get the win.

 

“I love having my brother Brandon in camp and on this card with me. It gives me an opportunity to take my mind off of my fight and focus on Brandon for a bit. It really helps me cope with everything
leading up to a big fight.

 

“Training camp was amazing. We did a lot of sparring with lefties so that my footwork is down. Other than that I was just grinding every day and trying to get better.

 

“I’m really happy to have the team that I have. Joel Diaz and I work really well together because we have the same mentality, but he can tell me when I need to take a step back.

 

“New York is one of the places that has held historic fights. Being on that same stage as great fighters from the past is amazing. It’s one of those things that makes you feel like you made it.

 

“I know how hard Robert Guerrero has worked to get to this point in his career. I want to prove that I can be in the big fights that Guerrero has already had. I’ve had a long time off but I can’t
wait to get it on Saturday night.

 

“I feel like I have everything in my arsenal to make this a successful night. I’m looking to show all of the things I’ve been working with Joel Diaz on and give the fans a great fight to remember.”

 

ROBERT GUERRERO

 

“I’m expecting Omar to come to fight. He’s undefeated with a great record so if it’s not broken, I don’t expect him to change his style.

 

“You have to prepare for everything for a guy as awkward as Omar. I’m going to have to make adjustments in the ring. If I can stay focused I know I can get the victory.

 

“I’ve made a lot of improvements since the last time people saw me. There’s way too much talent in this division for me to just come forward and press. I’m in great shape and I’m ready to work behind my jab do everything I need to do to be successful in the ring.

 

“I’m blessed to be here and have this tremendous opportunity in the main event again on FOX and FOX Deportes. It’s been a while since I’ve been in the ring but I never stopped working in the gym.

 

“I’ve said before that I had to go to the drawing board but this time we erased everything and rewrote it. This layoff has really helped me get in great shape and I’m really excited to get in the ring. I’m ready to turn the page to the next chapter of my career and that starts with this fight.

 

“It’s an honor to be able to work with my dad every day. It’s an incredible blessing for me to have such a loyal team. My father treats me like a man just like he always has. He makes me a better fighter every time out. He knows me like the back of his hand.”

 

MARCUS BROWNE

 

“I’m ready to roll. I’m ready let my hands go and get in the ring and rumble on Saturday night. This is going to be a great night of fights.

 

“This is a big fight for me. It’s a great fight against a very determined and experienced fighter. Seanie is a veteran in this sport but he’s still hungry. He has a lot to lose, as do I. We’re both going to put it on the line.

 

“I’m excited to be part of opening up this new venue. There are a lot of different cultures that come together in Long Island and it should make for a great crowd.

 

“I think the timing that my career has progressed has been great. I’ve been going step-by-step and I feel like I’m on a good path towards a world title.

 

“I’m very familiar with Seanie from sparring together but I know that he’s a veteran who’s going to have a great game plan. Training camp has me ready and I’m going to be prepared to make adjustments.
I’m ready to lay it all out there.”

 

SEANIE MONAGHAN

 

“Training camp has been excellent. I’ve been sparring a lot of lefties and getting ready for this style matchup. This is probably the longest camp I’ve ever had and I feel great. I’m on weight right now and ready for this fight. This is the best shape I’ve ever been in.

 

“It’s very inspiring to be looking at the place that you’ll be fighting while you’re training. I do my hardest workout on the track right across the street from the Coliseum. It helps me dig deep while I’m suffering.

 

“This is going to be an interesting matchup. Marcus and I are pretty much opposites in the ring. I’m a righty and he’s a lefty. He’s a fast-starter and I’m a strong finisher. It’s my job to turn it into a battle of wills.

 

“I’m fully-charged physically and locked and loaded mentally heading into Saturday night. This is the caliber of opponent I’ve been looking to face for a while and I’ll be ready when the bell rings.

 

“This is my 29th time getting into the professional ring so I’m not concerned about the emotions that come with fighting at home. Any kind of energy that I feel, I’m going to use it for fuel in the later rounds when I need it.”

 

ARTUR SZPILKA

 

“I want to show that my loss was an accident and that I’m ready to put on a great show for the fans.

 

“We will see how hard this fight will be. That is up to him, because I will be ready to put it all on the line and get this win. People want to see emotions in the ring and we will see if Kownacki is ready for me.

 

“I have to take this fight very seriously. I am in the best shape of my career. I can’t take for granted that I’m going to go in there and knock him out immediately.

 

“I waited a long time for this return. I broke my hand after the Deontay Wilder fight but now I am back and 100 percent ready for this fight.

 

“Adam is like I was before. He’s working his way up this sport and he’s very hungry. I respect Adam and I wish him the best, but not on Saturday night.”

 

ADAM KOWNACKI

 

“This is a big stage and a great challenge for me. Now it’s time for me to show that I’m ready for this. I’ve never ducked a challenge and I never will.

 

“All the hard work is done. I feel great after a really strong training camp and now the fun part comes Saturday night.

 

“I sparred with (top U.S. amateur) Cam Awesome, who is a good mover around the ring so he’s definitely helped prepare me for what Artur is going to bring.

 

“It means a lot to be in a fight between two Polish heavyweights. We’re two of the best Polish heavyweights in the world and only one of us can wear the crown.

 

“This is my coming out party. I’m going to make a statement on Saturday. I’ve been patiently waiting for this chance and now I’m going to prove that I belong.

 

“Artur and I definitely have different styles. I’m more of a puncher and he’s more of a mover. I worked a lot in training camp on cutting off the ring.”

 

BRANDON FIGUEROA

 

“I feel like I’ve improved a lot during this training camp. I feel very strong and confident heading into this fight. It’s really exciting to be on a card like this with my brother headlining.

 

“I’m just going to take my career step-by-step and take it one fight at a time. Hopefully if I keep working hard and performing I can get a title shot. I just want to take every fight that I can so that I can perform in front of the fans and give them a great show.

 

“I feel very prepared and very confident heading into this fight. This is definitely one of the best camps I’ve had. I fight a lot of heavy guys in Joel Diaz’s gym and it helped me get perfectly prepared for this fight.

 

“I love fighting on television so that I can give fans a good show. I’m always hungry for the win and now being in New York is an added piece of motivation.”

 

LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment

 

“On Saturday big-time boxing returns to Long Island. It’s been 31 years since a big boxing show on Long Island and that show was headlined by Mike Tyson. Saturday night is going to be a great night
for boxing in the New York area.

 

“This show has three terrific fights coming to us on Saturday night. I love that this card has three fights where the outcome is up in the air and they’re all-action matchups.

 

“Artur and Adam are in something of a grudge match, with these two Polish heavyweights talking about this for over a year, and now it’s finally going to happen. This is an important heavyweight
fight. The loser takes a big step back.

 

“Marcus Browne is a young lion rising his way up the ranks at light heavyweight. Seanie has been waiting a long time for an opportunity like this. The winner of this fight is right there for a world title. These guys have been friendly in the past, but they won’t be friends on Saturday night.

 

“The main event is definitely a crossroads fight to some extent. I have tremendous respect for both Omar and Robert. Omar is returning to the ring against one of the most experienced and battle-tested fighters out there in Guerrero.

 

“This is going to be a good night for Long Island and everyone who watches this in person or on FOX and FOX Deportes is going to be in for a great night of fighting