Tuesday, April 16, 2013

New York State Boxing Hall of Fame; Induction and Awards Dinner

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time. EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

Canelo vs. Trout

Canelo vs. Trout, a 12-round Super Welterweight World Championship Unification fight for Canelo's WBC title, Trout's WBA title and the vacant Ring Magazine title, is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions, Canelo Promotions and Leija & Battah Promotions and sponsored by Corona and AT&T. The co-main event will be a 10-round fight between undefeated prospects Omar Figueroa Jr. of Weslaco, Texas and Abner Cotto of Caguas, Puerto Rico for the vacant WBC Silver Lightweight Championship which is presented in association with Miguel Cotto Promotions. The fights will air live on SHOWTIME at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT with Canelo vs. Trout being presented in association with Gre

g Cohen Promotions. SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® is available in Spanish on secondary audio programming (SAP). Preliminary fights will air on SHOWTIME EXTREME at 8 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast)

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time. EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

CUNNINGHAM vs. FURY April 20th at The Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York

April 20th at The Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York features a 12-round heavyweight battle between Tyson Fury and Steve Cunningham in the main event. Curtis Stevens will take on Derrick Findley in the 8-round middleweight co-feature. Six additional bouts are planned for the undercard. Doors open at The Theater at Madison Square Garden doors open at 1:15PM ET. The main event and co-feature will be broadcast 4PM ET on NBC as a special 2 hour afternoon presentation of NBC Fight Night. The card is presented by Hennessy Sports and Main Events.

The main event is an official IBF Heavyweight Voluntary Eliminator fight for the #2 position. The winner must meet #1 or the leading available contender to establish the mandatory challenger for Heavyweight King Wladimir Klitschko

MASINI CAUTIOUSLY OPTIMISTIC FOR FRIDAY NIGHT FIGHTS

On Friday night April 19^th in Atlantic City, NJ, ESPN’s Friday Night Fights be televising a great professional boxing card at the Tropicana Hotel and Casino.

Somewhere on the eight bout card, manager Rich Masini will enter the ring alongside his undefeated Welterweight prospect Anthony “Juice” Young (7-0, 3 KO’s) for his eighth professional bout against Rafael Montalvo (2-3, 3 KO’s) of Puerto Rico.

“We are familiar with what Rafael brings to the table, we know he has power and he is a tough kid”, says Masini

“I am also real excited at the progress that “Juice” has made over the last eighteen months. Anthony is an extremely gifted athlete who is becoming a better and better fighter with each bout”

“Our entire team has great chemistry from head trainer Ray McCline and cutman Abdou Hassan as well as our promoters Vito Mielnicki’s GH3 Promotions and Greg Cohen Promotions. We all work real well together. “Juice” has a great team around him and he is blessed with a great family at home as well. On Friday night, “Juice’s” fan base will show up in numbers in Atlantic City. “Juice” is an Atlantic City fighter with a passionate and diverse fan base. The entire Atlantic City area has seemingly adopted “Juice” as their next big prospect”

“While we take one fight at a time, we look to stay extremely busy for the balance of 2013”

“Lastly I want to thank promoter Sampson Lewkowicz and Vinny LaManna for making this fight possible on Friday”

Golden Boy Promotions Announces Second Boxing Series Event At The BB&T Center Set For Saturday, June 1 Featuring Braulio Santos vs. Derrick Wilson And Daquan Arnett vs. Irving Garcia On FOX Sports Networks, FOX Deportes And FUEL TV Special Guest Appearance by Tommy "The Hitman" Hearns

Golden Boy Promotions and Sunrise Sports & Entertainment announced today that the second Golden Boy Boxing Series event is set for Saturday, June 1 at the BB&T Center with a world class doubleheader featuring Puerto Rican knockout artist Braulio Santos facing tough prospect Derrick Wilson in a 10-round featherweight main event and a 10-round welterweight co-main event that pits unbeaten Floridian Daquan Arnett against Puerto Rican veteran Irving Garcia which will be televised on FOX Sports Net, FOX Deportes and FUEL TV.

The event will also feature a special guest appearance by former World Champion Tommy "The Hitman" Hearns.

Santos vs. Wilson is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Sunrise Sports & Entertainment and sponsored by Corona. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. and the first bell rings at 8 p.m. The FOX Sports Networks and FOX Deportes bi-lingual simulcast will air live at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. FUEL TV will rebroadcast the fight on Sunday, June 30 at 12 p.m. ET/9 a.m. PT.

23-year-old featherweight sensation Braulio Santos (10-0, 9 KO's) has drawn comparisons to several Puerto Rican greats from the past thanks to his fast and heavy hands that have seen him knockout nine of his 10 professional opponents with six falling in the first round. Fresh off of a 57 second knockout over 7-1 Kevin Hoskins in March, Santos will look for another quick finish in his third bout of 2013 on June 1.

A gutsy competitor who always shows up to fight, Fort Myers, Florida's Derrick Wilson (9-4-2, 3 KO's) hopes to snap a two-bout losing streak when he takes on Santos in his home state this June. Best remembered for his first round knockout over then unbeaten Charles Huerta in 2009, the 24-year-old will look to recapture that form and expects to be at his best with home state fans in his corner against the highly-regarded Santos.

A 2009 Junior Olympic national champion, 20-year-old Daquan Arnett (10-0, 6 KO's) of Winter Park, Fla. has been equally dazzling as a professional with his speed and power leaving opponents searching for answers that never arrive. In his last two fights, Arnett has tarnished the unbeaten records of Jeremiah Wiggins (TKO 4) and Brandon Quarles (W 8) and he plans on defeating the veteran Garcia on June 1.

Hailing from Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, Irving Garcia (17-8-3, 8 KO's) is a battle-tested warrior who has traded leather with Ishe Smith, Mike Jones, Luis Abregu and Said Ouali over the course of his nearly 15-year career. Geared up to show rising star Arnett a thing or two this June, the 34-year-old can inject new life into his career with a win over the highly-touted prospect.

Steve ‘USS’ Cunningham Backs Protégé Marianne Marston To Win On 27th April In London

Ahead of his upcoming IBF Heavyweight Title Eliminator, against Tyson Fury, at Madison Square Gardens this coming Saturday, the 20^th April, former two time Cruiserweight Champion of the World Steve ‘USS’ Cunningham took a little time off from his final preparations, to send a message of support across the Atlantic to former ‘Team Cunningham’ boxer Marianne Marston, who will be fighting Latvian Aleksandra Jasjukevica at York Hall in London one week later on Saturday 27^th April.

Even though it is just a few days away from what many perceive to be the hardest fight of his career, Cunningham, who was once described by Bad Left Hook Magazine’s Scott Christ as ‘The World’s Nicest Man’, once again proved just what a genuinely nice guy he is, by contacting his former charge, British Featherweight Marianne Marston, and wishing her every success for her upcoming fight.

Marston, who now resides back in London and is trained by Barry Smith at the TRAD TKO Boxing Gym in Canning Town, was invited to become part of Team Cunningham following her move to The James Shuler Memorial Gym in West Philadelphia, after her original ‘home’ gym, Smokin’ Joe Frazier’s Gym in North Philadelphia, closed in March 2008.

Under Cunningham’s tutelage Marston was set to debut in South Philadelphia in May 2009, however following her return to the UK in February of that year, to arrange her P1 Professional Athlete visa, things went sour for the ‘Golden Girl’ after the US Embassy refused her the visa, even though there had been no problems with her living in America, whilst training and preparing for her planned professional debut.

Following his call of support, Cunningham briefly said of his former charge.

"It's great to see Marianne finally getting her pro debut, she has been training hard for years and this is a long time coming!"

Before adding, “I know she will be victorious, I only wish I could attend to cheer her on in person."

Steve ‘USS’ Cunningham versus Tyson Fury takes place at Madison Square Gardens on Saturday 20^th April 2013 and will be broadcast live by NBC at 4pm EST in America and Channel 5 at 9.30pm in the United Kingdom.

Just one week later, on the 27^th April 2013, Marianne Marston versus Aleksandra Jasjukevica features on the undercard of Dean ‘Irish Lightning’ Byrne - Jay ‘IOW Assassin’ Morris International Masters Welterweight Championship clash which headlines Dave Murphy’s Thunderdrome Promotions ‘Thunder & Lightning’ event at York Hall, Bethnal Green in London.

JUAN DOMINGUEZ HEADLINES ON SATURDAY MAY 4TH AT RESORTS WORLD CASINO NEW YORK CITY

On Saturday night May 4^th, Boxing returns to the beautiful Resorts World Casino New York City in Queens, New York for a great night of action promoted by New Legend Boxing, Old World Boxing and W.O.N Promotions.

In the main event, undefeated Super Bantamweight Juan “Baby Tito” Dominguez will see action in a bout scheduled for ten rounds.

Dominguez of Brooklyn, NY has a record of 13-0 with 9 knockouts and is coming off an explosive 2nd round stoppage over Geyci Lorenzo in his hometown of Santiago de los Caballeros in the Dominican Republic that took place on February 16th. Dominguez captured the WBA Fedecaribe Super Bantamweight title with that win over Lorenzo. Dominguez previously captured the New York State Bantamweight title with an eight round unanimous decision over Arturo Santiago on June 24, 2011.

Dominguez opponent will be named shortly.

Co-features:

Frank Galarza will take part in a Jr. Middleweight bout against Jason Thompson and Light Heavyweight Joe Smith Jr will take on Hamid Abdul-Mateen.

Galarza of Brooklyn, NY has a record of 9-0-1 with 5 knockouts and is one of the most popular fighters in the New York area due to his exciting style. In September 2012, Galarza was involved in a Fight of The Year when he and fellow undefeated Alantez Fox waged an eight round war that took place at the Resorts World Casino New York City. In his most recent bout, Galarza scored an impressive 2^nd round knockout over Guillermo Ibarra on March 9^th that was part of the Bernard Hopkins – Tavoris Cloud undercard at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

Jason Thompson of Brooklyn, NY has a record of 5-6-2 with 4 knockouts. Thompson is a rugged, aggressive fighter who comes to fight. In Thompson’s most recent fight at the Barclays Center on October 20, 2012, Thompson fought to a six round draw, dropping up and coming prospect Boyd Melson 10-1-0 in the first round. All three judges scored the fight 56-56.

Smith is an exciting knockout artist from Shirley, Long Island, NY has a record of 11-1 with all of his wins coming early and is riding a five fight winning streak. Smith won his first six by knockout, all within the first two rounds before being stopped by Eddie Caminero. Since then, Smith has taken out all five opponents which includes a third round stoppage over Yasin Rashid on September 22^nd, 2012 which was at the Resorts World Casino New York City.

Mateen of Brooklyn, NY has a record of 3-3-2 and has faced some solid opposition. Mateen has a win over Ahmed Mickens (1-0-1) and a draw with Alexander Mancera (8-4) with his only defeats coming to undefeated fighters Stivens Bujaj (2-0), Lavarn Harvell (7-0) and the highly regarded Travis Peterkin (4-0) on October 24, 2012 in New York City.

Also scheduled for a six round bout, Angel Garcia (5-1, 2 KO’s) of Brooklyn, NY will take on an opponent to be named in a Super Featherweight affair.

In four round bouts: Bryant Cruz (3-0, 3 KO’s) of Port Chester, NY will take on an opponent to be named in a Super Featherweight bout.

In a Featherweight bout, Allan Phelan (1-2, 1 KO) of New York (by way of Ireland) battles Jonathan Caban (0-4) of Queens, NY.

Ryan Ramayya (1-0, 1 KO) of Queens, NY will take on Daniel Hernandez (0-1) of Queens, NY in a Super Bantamweight bout.

In a Junior Middleweight bout, Shawn Cameron (3-0, 2 KO’s) of Brooklyn, NY will take on Jose Angel Ortiz (4-11-1, 1 KO) from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

Rounding out the card will be a ladies Super Flyweight match between Vanessa Greco (1-2) of New York and an opponent to be named.

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time. EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

EIGHT-TIME AND FIVE DIVISION WORLD CHAMPION FLOYD "MONEY" MAYWEATHER MEDIA ROUNDTABLE QUOTES‏

Eight-Time and Five-Division World Champion Floyd "Money" Mayweather broke from his Las Vegas training camp over the weekend to attend the semifinals of the men's college basketball tournament at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta. While there, he also sat down with media members covering the tournament to discuss his upcoming WBC and Ring Magazine Welterweight World Championship mega-fight against Six-Time and Four Division World Champion Robert Guerrero taking place Saturday, May 4 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas which will be produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV^®.

Below please find quotes on an array of topics in "Money" Mayweather's own words.

On the NCAA Tournament and Enjoyment of Basketball

"I love basketball. I honestly feel if you are not sweating and it is not blood, sweat and tears, it is not a sport. No disrespect to anyone who's involved and they think it is a sport, but to me it's just an activity if you don't have blood, sweat and tears, then I think it is just an activity.

"This year I really thought it was going to be Indiana. One of my teams is still in it too, but unfortunately for me, I did not have them advancing to the Finals. I will watch the game and am probably going to watch the first half before I decide to make a bet. I have watched both teams [Lousiville and Michigan] and see how they play."

"No one had Wichita State and I guess that is why they are called the 'Shockers.' Obviously that program is doing something right.

"I was telling Charles Barclay before my interview, during the Big East tournament, when Syracuse took the lead over Louisville, they started to play comfortably and Louisville came back and won the game. Same thing happened Saturday against Wichita State, but I think if Michigan takes the lead on Louisville, it is going to be harder for them to come back. Both teams are stacked with talent.

"These guys just poured their hearts out for the love of the game. I just saw that situation at Rutgers where the coach was throwing balls and choking those players and those players didn't go over the edge. They knew they couldn't because they weren't in the position to pull their family out of a rough situation so they were in a tough spot. In that case you have to take the bumps and bruises that comes with those situations. but I don't think it was right what was going on and treating those young college kids playing basketball."

On His May 4 Championship Fight Against Robert Guerrero

"I have been off for a year now, so I am looking forward to getting back in the ring. Less than a month away, so I am excited.

"Robert Guerrero is a tough fighter, a solid, busy fighter. He only has one loss, a champion in multiple weight classes. Let's see what he can do in there. I am sure he is going to be able to make adjustments in that squared circle just like I can, so we will have to see what happens on May 4^th. We will have to see how the fight plays out. I just want the fans to tune in. It's going to be an action-packed fight on May 4^th. I am willing to do whatever it takes to get the victory. If I have to mix it up or box. I am going to bring it.

"He [Guerrero] did something right to get here. I am sure he is going to be on his 'A' game, but I am not really worried about what he can do. He needs to worry about what I can do because I have already proven what I can do in the ring.

"I am very appreciative of what boxing has done for me and I am glad to have given back so much to the sport too. I always wanted to be the best and I think I have proven that over the course of my career.

"I have been pushing myself in training camp. I think my body is going to look tremendous for this fight. I can't say how my performance is going to be, but of course I am going to go out there and perform. I always am at my best.

"On May 4^th I am going to go out there, be ready and hopefully he is ready too. This is the longest I have trained for any fight, so it should be a great night.

"I am going to dish it out against Robert Guerrero on this one. I am going to be the Mayweather that is active. I have young guys who are really pushing me in the gym for this fight. Sure I have bad days in the gym, but I don't have bad fight nights, bad paydays.

"Everything is going in camp like it should go. My Dad and me have an understanding that we all work as a team so that is going well because I need my whole team. My uncle Roger is coming along as far as his health, but one thing is for sure, that is my family and I love them. We can't choose our family and as my mother said in the documentary [30 DAYS IN MAY], they gave me a hand and I am just playing the hand they gave me.

"I really wouldn't be here without my team. My career is not just about the money like some people want to believe. My career is about my legacy. It's also about living, loving and laughing and enjoying life.

"I go through ups and downs. It's a roller coaster ride. I just keep on going and do the best I can, but I am strong and am going to continue to survive. Continue to go strong not just for the sport of boxing, but to entertain the people too.

"I am happy to be with SHOWTIME and CBS. This is the beginning of our relationship and for the next 30 months I plan to give you action-packed fights.

"I flew to Atlanta for the Final Four, flew to Miami to check my property, I am heading back to Las Vegas to train, then have to make a stop in Los Angeles.

"Everyone is entitled to his or her own opinion about me and my career. I honestly don't really care what you say. I love my fans, but I don't live for anybody except myself and my family. I am comfortable with myself. If people are out there saying 'I don't like Floyd Mayweather and he is only about the money,' I am pretty sure I have some of their pay-per-view money too."

On Heroes and Young Fighters

"I looked up to a lot of people coming up. I looked up to different people: my father, my uncle Roger, a lot of other fighters who have come before me too like Muhammad Ali and even Mike Tyson. I looked up to a lot of people. I always wanted to be the first to do something, so I was always listening and learning the best I could.

"The person you meet now is the same person you are going to meet down the road. I don't care what car I am driving or jewelry I am wearing. I stay who I am regardless of what you think I might be or who you think I am.

"People always say, 'If I had this much money, I would do this or I would do that.' Well those people don't actually have the money or are not in my position. As Stephen Espinoza just said, you don't stay at the top for as long as I have just because. I obviously have been doing something right.

"My mindset has always been to be the best. I would rather be known as a smart fighter. If you go back and look at my interviews from when I was young, I always said the less you get hit, the longer you are going to be able to stay in the game. Going to toe-to-toe just because you can say you did it is not cool to me.

"Sure I have done it in some of my fights, like the Miguel Cotto fight, but there is also a limit. I couldn't have done that in all of my 43 fights. There is a limit.

"I say to the young fighters that some things just aren't cool. They think taking a lot of punishment and going toe-to-toe in every fight is cool? That's not cool. Or to be able to say they got locked up. That's not cool either. I know I have mad mistakes but I can wake up every morning and say I have been honest admitting that.

"Also for the young fighters they should make sure they have a good team around them. People that are going to keep it real with you and can help you make the right decision. There are limits to everything you do. Even though I might seem edgier at times, I have limits too. I am older now and I understand it better. Things can come to a young good fighter so fast they can get caught up in a bad situation. I am going to continue to mentor the young, up-and-coming fighters. I will try to be the best mentor I can for some of these young fighters.

"For young people I say, work hard and dedicate yourself to your life. Be respectful to your parents, go to school because education is important and never compromise to be the best that you can be.

"I want to be able to get around and be sharp when my career is over. I want to be like Rafael Garcia who is here with me today. He's almost 90 years old, hanging with us, still jogging, driving, and wearing sunglasses. I want to be like that when I am older. I want to be able to hang out with my grandkids and be the patriarch of my family."

On Training and Music

"If I was to identify with a rapper I would probably have to say Tupac. Just with everything that has happened in my career and what he rapped about and his own life struggles, I would have to say.

"As far as listening to music, I am older now and I am an R&B man. I got a lot of nice cars and when I am driving around in a nice Rolls Royce taking Ms. Jackson out to eat, I'm not trying to be bumpin' some wild music. Even in the gym or when I run with cars following me with the music, I tell them to give me some old school music, all old school."

Monday, April 15, 2013

All Access: Mayweather vs. Guerrero returns with episode two, next Weds (April 17th) at 10p ET/PT on SHOWTIME!

All Access: Mayweather vs. Guerrero - Episode 2 Trailer

Don't miss the second installment of All Access: Mayweather vs. Guerrero.
Wednesday, April 17th at 10PM on SHOWTIME

Sunday, April 14, 2013

WBC HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP ELIMINATION BOUT BETWEEN CHRIS ARREOLA & BERMANE STIVERNE

Riverside's Chris "The Nightmare" Arreola (35-2, 30 KOs) the WBC #1 world contender takes on the heavy-hitting WBC #2 world contender, Bermane "B. Ware" Stiverne (22-1-1, 20 KOs) in a heavyweight battle with the winner guaranteed to fight for the WBC Heavyweight World Championship in his next bout. Both Arreola and Stiverne will look to put their power on display to take that next step toward history.

The 12-round WBC World Championship Heavyweight Elimination main event, with the winner guaranteed to immediately fight for the World Championship. The competitive match up is set to take place on Saturday, April 27 at Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario, California.

In addition, being showcased that night will be Olympian twin brothers from Norwalk, CA, Javier Molina (13-1, 5KOs), the 2008 US Olympian and Oscar Molina (2-0, 1KO), the 2012 Mexican Olympian. Also featured in a 4-round bout, the pride of the Ten Goose Gym, up-and-coming Juan Funez (1-0) of Van Nuys.

Doors open at Citizens Business Bank Arena at 2:30 p.m. The first bout starts at 3:00 p.m. with the scheduled 12-round bout between Arreola-Stiverne to begin at 5:30 p.m.

SIX-TIME AND FOUR-DIVISION WORLD CHAMPION ROBERT "THE GHOST" GUERRERO SHOWED DETERMINATION IN LANDING FIGHT AGAINST FLOYD "MONEY" MAYWEATHER; Mega-Fight Takes Place Saturday, May 4 At MGM Grand in Las Vegas and Will be Produced and Distributed Live by SHOWTIME PPV®

Six-Time and Four-Division World Champion Robert "The Ghost" Guerrero will attempt to hand Eight-Time and Five-Division World Champion Floyd "Money" Mayweather the first loss of his professional career when they face off on Saturday, May 4 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nev. in a fight which will be produced and distributed live by SHOWTIME PPV^®.

While it has yet to be seen whether Guerrero's faith can will him to victory as he has recently claimed it will, it is evident that determination has guided him to the biggest fight of his career.

Guerrero has shown that he can certainly back up his talk with his actions in the ring. In 2012, he won two back-to-back bouts in the welterweight division and captured the WBC Interim Welterweight World Championship, making him the third fighter in boxing history to win a world title at featherweight and welterweight, joining the likes of legends Henry Armstrong and Manny Pacquiao. Guerrero has also joined the exclusive fraternity of fighters who have jumped up two weight classes to win world championships during their careers, a group which includes Roberto Duran, Roy Jones Jr. and Sugar Shane Mosley with only Guerrero and Jones accomplishing the feat in their first fights in their new weight classes. Lastly, he is one of two Mexican American fighters to win world titles in four divisions, the other being Oscar De La Hoya.

While it's not a surprise that Guerrero has earned the opportunity to face Mayweather, the proven pound-for-pound and pay-per-view king, it might surprise even the most dedicated boxing fans to know just how long Guerrero lobbied for this opportunity.

November 11, 2011

"I just believe that there's a potential Mayweather fight out there for me. You know, Mayweather wants to come back on May 5. (Ring TV)

"I'm a world champion over three different weight divisions. I've fought overseas and I've won five titles. What more can I do in boxing to put myself into position for a fight of this magnitude?" (Ring TV)

"I'm throwing it out there. There shouldn't be any reason that that fight can't be made. My last fight, I walked into the ring at 152 pounds. Mayweather walks into the ring at 148 or 149 or 150, so that's not much of a difference. I can make 147 no problem." (Ring TV)

November 21, 2011

"I'm a multiple world champion and I've won titles in three different divisions. That's always the excuse when you're trying to avoid the young lion. For instance, Jesus Chavez, Carlos Hernandez, Sharmba Mitchell, Victor Ortiz and Henry Bruseles, who did they beat to get their chance to fight Floyd? Not one of them has accomplished as much as I have." (Boxing Scene)

"We are approaching this challenge like 'Hey, let's make it happen. I know he set that date. Cinco de Mayo. I am Mexican American right here. Let's do it." (The Sweet Science)

"Mayweather is the guy I want. Like I said, I want to fight the best... I'd love to fight him." (The Sweet Science)

"I know he is paying attention. Floyd Mayweather would not be pound-for-pound best fighter in the world, if he wasn't paying attention. Even when he retired, he was paying attention. I'm expecting him to take on the challenge." (The Sweet Science)

December 1, 2011

"The fact is I've always faced the biggest challenges in and out of the ring head on. I've always said to be the best you have to fight the best and right now Floyd Mayweather is considered the best fighter in the world. I'm here to say I'm the best fighter in the world. There's only one way to find out...May 5^th let's do it." (Boxing Scene)

December 6, 2011

"I'm a five-time world champion in three different weight divisions. I'm a 5'9" lefty and everyone says he has trouble with lefties. This is his chance to show the world. I've won world titles, defending them a number of times. He isn't getting a guy that's only had one world title fight. He'd have an experienced fighter in front of him and also a big fighter... Everything is setup right there to make a big fight...When it comes down to it, I take care of business. If it comes down to having to go to Floyd's gym, that's what I'll do." (Fight Hype)

December 15, 2011

"I haven't fought in awhile, but it hasn't been that long. I will get the best sparring partners in the world and will be sharper than I've ever been. Like I said, I respect Floyd a lot and will make sure I am on top of my game. I feel like some of these things can help me get the fight. You know how Floyd likes to hand pick his opponents...Maybe this will make me look more attractive to him." (Fight Saga)

"Floyd needs a dancing partner on Cinco de Mayo and I'm willing to step up and face the biggest challenge out there. I know I can beat him. It's up to Floyd to take the fight." (Fight Hype)

"Well for one, like I said, I wanna fight the best fighters out there. Everyone says I am 135, that I have no experience at 140 or 147. Size is not the issue. I am a physically bigger guy. I have been around Floyd, I have seen Floyd in person. I have been on undercards that Floyd was fighting on. I am a bigger guy than Floyd. At the end of the day words are not going to get the job done." (Examiner)

January 4, 2012

"Yes, I've been seeking a fight with Floyd since his date on May 5^th was announced. I'm here to fight the best fighters in the world." (Doghouse Boxing)

January 9, 2012

"I'm going to shock the world and beat Floyd Mayweather." (LA Times)

"No matter who it is, a fight with Floyd Mayweather would be the biggest fight of anybody's career. This is where you start setting your legacy as one of the greatest in boxing." (Daily News)

"MAY DAY: Mayweather vs. Guerrero," a 12-round fight for Mayweather's WBC Welterweight World Championship and the vacant Ring Magazine Welterweight World Championship, is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions and sponsored by Corona, O'Reilly Auto Parts, AT&T, Star Trek Into Darkness and Valvoline. The mega-event will take place Saturday, May 4 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and will be produced and distributed live by SHOWTIME PPV® beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT. The event can be heard in Spanish using secondary audio programming (SAP). Also featured will be Daniel Ponce de Leon vs. Abner Mares, a 12-round fight for Ponce de Leon's WBC Featherweight World Championship, former IBF Bantamweight World Champion Leo Santa Cruz facing veteran Alexander Munoz in a 10-round junior featherweight bout and rising star J'Leon Love squaring off against recent world title challenger Gabriel Rosado in a 10-round middleweight battle for the vacant NABF Middleweight Championship.
♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time. EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

James Toney travels to Australia to take on undefeated Lucas Browne on April 27

James 'Lights Out' Toney is heading to Australia to fight in the main event against Australia’s undefeated heavyweight boxing champion Lucas 'Big Daddy' Browne in Melbourne’s Convention and Exhibition Centre on Sunday, April 28.

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time. EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

CANELO ALVAREZ AND AUSTIN TROUT MEDIA CONFERENCE CALL TRANSCRIPT

Canelo vs. Trout, a 12-round Super Welterweight World Championship Unification fight for Canelo's WBC title, Trout's WBA title and the vacant Ring Magazine title, is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions, Canelo Promotions and Leija & Battah Promotions and sponsored by Corona and AT&T. The co-main event will be a 10-round fight between undefeated prospects Omar Figueroa Jr. of Weslaco, Texas and Abner Cotto of Caguas, Puerto Rico for the vacant WBC Silver Lightweight Championship which is presented in association with Miguel Cotto Promotions. The fights will air live on SHOWTIME at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT with Canelo vs. Trout being presented in association with Greg Cohen Promotions. SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^? is available in Spanish on secondary audio programming (SAP). Preliminary fights will air on SHOWTIME EXTREME at 8 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).

Oscar De La Hoya

Yes, we are a little over a week away and things are moving extremely well. Ticket sales have been unbelievably selling like hotcakes. We are well over 35,000 tickets.

We expect an incredible walk up, not only the day of the fight but all that week. As you know, when Julio Cesar Chavez fought Pernell Whitaker the walk up on that day alone was unbelievable. So we're expecting a lot of people from across the border to come over and support their very own Saul "Canelo" Alvarez.

This bout is a unification fight. It's a 12-round fight for the WBC and WBA and also the vacant Ring Magazine Super Welterweight World Championship. We're happy to announce the culminating event will be the up and coming fighter from Texas, Omar Figueroa Jr. vs. Abner Cotto, which will be a ten-rounder for the vacant WBC Silver Lightweight Title.

As you know, this event is taking place at the Alamodome promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and Canelo Promotions. And I also want to thank Leija & Battah Promotions, who have been doing an incredible, incredible job. I'm also happy to announce that Miguel Cotto also is helping us promote this event with Omar Figueroa and Abner Cotto.

This event is being sponsored by Corona and AT&T. Thank you very much. And as always, thank you very much to Showtime Championship Boxing. This event will be beginning at 10:00 p.m. Eastern/7:00 p.m. Pacific and the preliminary bouts will air on Showtime Extreme at 8:00 p.m. Eastern.

So April 20th fights will begin at 4:30 p.m. live there at the Alamodome. The doors will open at 3:30 p.m.

And so let me introduce to you, he hails out of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico. He is the WBC Super Welterweight World Champion. He has been a pro since 2005 and he started professionally at the age of 15. Right now at the age of 22 he's obviously Mexico's champion and current boxing super star. Let me introduce to you the champion at 154 pounds, Saul "Canelo" Alvarez. Saul?

Canelo

I'm very happy. The time is near. I like the response that all the fans and the media have given me. I'm very, very motivated and willing/ready to give my best once I step into that ring come Saturday the 20th.

Q

Very good. Hey, I just wanted to ask you, do you think that a victory in this fight against Trout makes it a no-brainer that your next fight should be against Floyd Mayweather Jr.?

And also on that, what does it mean to you to be considered, like Oscar said, Mexico's champion and boxing super star in the country now? Do you think that you really have elevated to that spot? Thank you very much.

Canelo

To answer your question, right now my focus is 100% only on Austin Trout and that's all I'm thinking of. After the fight, we'll sit down, discuss what's next, but right now I'm focused only on Austin Trout and, God willing, winning this fight.

Your second question, it's an honor. I'm very, very honored to hear someone like Oscar mention me in those words. I love it. It does thrill me but I'd rather the people say it and me continue to do my job inside the ring.

Q

Canelo, going into this fight when the deal was being done I guess there were people that were in your camp that weren't really high on the fight but that you continued to press for it because it was that you personally wanted to sort of prove a lot of the critics wrong and because you hadn't really fought any top fighters to take on one of the elite fighters in the division.

Can you talk about your mindset, as far as demanding that fight and maybe going against what some of your advisors and people close to you thought about the match up?

Canelo

The team, after the fight with Cotto we had decided that's the fight we wanted. And yes, we sat down and talked to our promoter, Golden Boy, made the decision that was who we wanted. They got to work and that's where we're at now and we're all happy that we're all in agreement.

Q

But am I wrong that there were people, at least initially that were not-I mean they were going to do what Canelo ultimately wanted them to do, but that they weren't really pressing the issue? They thought maybe there could be a different fight or a better fight but that you insisted on this fight?

Canelo

Oh yeah, it was brought up that there are other fights and let's take other avenues but I wanted this fight and that's why we're here on this call today and with the fight coming up on the 20th.

Q

I mean obviously you've been a champion now for a while. You fought some good fighters and that sort of thing and been active, but do you view this as your best opponent and also sort of like I guess maybe your moment of truth to sort of prove to anybody that might doubt your abilities that you are for real because you're taking on one of the best fighters out there coming off the win against Cotto?

Canelo

There's always going to be critics but criticism is also constructive and in this particular case it's always your next fight that they're going to criticize or talk about and that's your toughest fight. This particular fight, yes, the one in turn, it is the toughest and we'll silence the critics after.

Q

Oscar, let me ask you a quick question. Listen, you were a guy, when you were boxing, pretty much took on everybody that was there, especially as a welterweight and above, every top name, all the guys that people maybe rated ahead of you.

I'm curious from your perspective. What do you think it says about the competitive nature and just the attitude of Canelo to just basically say to everybody around him, "Listen, I don't want to hear about any other names. I want the guy I think's the next best guy in the weight class. I want to fight Austin Trout." What does it say about Canelo as a fighter that he would just demand this caliber of a fight?

Oscar De La Hoya

It speaks volumes of such a young man. At the age of 22 already wanting to fight the very best. Austin Trout is a very dangerous opponent. Just like every other opponent, yes it's dangerous, but Austin Trout is an undefeated fighter, WBA champion.

You're right. People were worried, were concerned but one of those people wasn't me. I know Canelo's abilities. I know his style. I know that he loves fighting southpaws. But it speaks volumes.

At the age of 22 years old, if you compare Saul's career to anybody else's, anybody else who's elite, they would never take this chance or this type of fight ever, including myself, including a Floyd Mayweather, including anybody. This is a test that he wanted and we're obviously hoping for the best.

Q

What did you see in Austin Trout's style and what do you think his strengths and weakness are?

Canelo

We had Cotto in mind. We wanted to fight Miguel Angel Cotto but obviously when he beat him we saw a fight that we wanted to do. Austin Trout's undefeated. He's a world champion, very difficult style, strong southpaw, but this also gave me the motivation to go on and fight one of the best and we consider him as one of the best out there.

Q

My question to Canelo and Oscar, you did fight a lot of guys. You fought the best guys and you lost some tough fights, Mosley, Trinidad, and I understand there's a rematch clause for this fight. Can you discuss the notion of a rematch clause and from Canelo's standpoint, from your guy's standpoint, what that means?

Oscar De La Hoya

Well obviously, yes, if you want to be the best you have to fight the best and I had the privilege of fighting the very best, which obviously a lot of people appreciated. This is no different. Canelo, at the young age of 22, is already going to fight the best.

The rematch clause is obviously-whatever happens in the fight, if it's a great fight then let's do it again. Why not? That's the way we see it. Canelo winning or Austin winning, it being a draw, if it's going to be a great fight then why not do it again?

Canelo

It's something you respect and it depends on the outcome of the fight, but yes, like Oscar mentioned, if it's a great fight and the fans want to see it then yes we consider it, definitely.

Q

Okay. Also, Oscar, you've made a lot of comparisons between this fight and the Chavez/Whitaker fight. Can you discuss the element of that fight? You have a great Mexican warrior against a boxer who's also a southpaw and also the location. And also you could have Canelo address the notion of being compared to that night and the two double fights and the meaning it has to his country?

Oscar De La Hoya

Absolutely. I've compared this event to a lot of past fights that took place. For instance, when I fought Fernando Vargas the importance to me as a fighter to convince people that I was the real deal. When I fought Ike Quartey those types of fights convinced people that I could fight.

Even when Chavez fought Pernell Whitaker the magnitude of event in San Antonio was like no other. It put boxing on the map in San Antonio. So all of those three fights that I just mentioned, Canelo right now is in that same position. He's going to put boxing back on the map in San Antonio with the event. I mean we're well over 35,000 tickets sold.

And this fight is the defining fight for Canelo Alvarez. This fight, if everything goes well, him winning this fight will take him over the top and will get the respect from the critics who don't believe. So it's a very important fight, but it's a fight that the people are going to enjoy and I think both fighters are going to really, really fight their hearts out come April 20th.

Canelo

I'm very honored. I'm very proud to be even included and compared into those comparisons and making history, fighting in a historic place. That's what motivates me even more and to be fighting in front of so many Mexicans. I'm very happy.

Q

So you embrace this opportunity and do you think that it will bring out the best in you, a tough opponent and a large supportive atmosphere and the history of one of the greatest champions in Mexican history?

Canelo

Yes of course. Yes, I'm very honored. I'm very proud. That's what we've been training for very hard because we want to show that we belong here. We're ready for this and because it's a big responsibility and we want to make everybody proud.

Q

Oscar, this questions for you. Have you given Canelo much advice and if so what.

Oscar De La Hoya

Absolutely. There are times where I-we can see him in the gym or at press conferences or talk to him over the phone or even send text messages, just little things. It's amazing how Saul is so mature for his age. He's got his head on his shoulders.

He's well advanced in terms of his abilities inside the ring. He is just a seasoned veteran at the age of 22. He's thinking like a veteran champion and that is just incredible to just talk to him. When I'm giving him advice he already knows. He already knows.

It kind of I feel, yes, like I do want to take him under my wing and I do want to guide him and wish the best for him but he already knows everything there is to know. I can give him little tips in here that are going to work inside the ring or outside the ring but he's just such an intelligent and, like I said, seasoned veteran inside and outside the ring so it really is an honor to work with him.

Q

Yes, they say that if you wait long enough what goes around eventually comes around. Nearly 20 years ago in September of 1993 there was fight before a huge crowd at the Alamodome between a great Mexican champion in Julio Cesar Chavez and a slick African American southpaw in Pernell Whitaker.

I wanted to ask Canelo how familiar he is with that fight and what possible similarities or dissimilarities does he see between what's going to happen in this fight and what happened in that fight?

Canelo

Yes, it is a very similar fight. I watched it on video several times and Austin Trout, like Pernell Whitaker, is a southpaw, slick, difficult fighter. He's very difficult but that's what we're training hard for. We're training hard for that and come the 20th, the night of the fight, we're going to make it where it's not so difficult for us.

Q

It seems like most people are seeing this as a puncher against a boxer. Do you feel that perhaps your boxing skills are unappreciated, at least here in the United States? And while I know you respect Austin's boxing ability, what's your level of respect for his punching power?

Canelo

Many people focus just on my power but they don't see that I'm very fast and know how to move in the ring as well. So that's something that, yeah, they'll see.

And Trout is a strong fighter. He showed it. He showed it with Cotto and he is a very strong fighter but that's what makes me very happy, motivated, working hard and I'll show it all come fight night.

Q

You are undefeated. Trout is undefeated. What is going to be the key to victory?

Canelo

The key is not to get desperate, not to get wild. Take round per round, win round per round and see what comes up and counter that during the fight.

Q

I have a two-part question for Canelo. Just one, how motivating is it for you to fight Trout knowing that he beat your brother, Rigoberto, a couple years ago and if Austin Trout was even on your radar at the time of that fight?

Canelo

Yes, definitely, it's a blood revenge that I'm looking at. I'm very motivated for it. I was there at the fight when he beat Rigoberto, my brother. And I felt such an inability to do something but now it's here and I'm very motivated and that is a big factor.

Q

The question is for both Oscar and Canelo. In the future, is there still a possibility of a fight against Victor Ortiz?

Oscar De La Hoya

Look, the focus right now is on Austin Trout and after that we'll decide but Canelo said to fight the best in the world.

Q

Okay, Canelo, this fight was originally scheduled for Cinco de Mayo weekend but moved back to April 20th due to a falling out with Floyd Mayweather. Are you at all disappointed that you're not fighting on Cinco de Mayo weekend?

Canelo

No, on the contrary I'm very happy to be fighting on April 20th. Look at the response that the people have had, the press has had. Even though it's been a short time to put it together I'm very excited, very happy about it.

Q

How do you envision this fight with Austin Trout? And coming out victorious, are you interested in a fight with Miguel Angel Cotto?

Canelo

We all know Austin Trout's undefeated, tough. It's a very difficult fight but that's what we're training for, preparing for, to come out victorious. Right now my focus is just on Austin Trout. But like I said, after the fight we'll sit down and we want the best fights and yes, of course, Miguel Angel Cotto is a great fighter.

Canelo

Thank you everybody. I'm very happy for all the support that I've received and I'll be waiting for everybody in San Antonio on the 20th. Thank you all.

Oscar De La Hoya

Thank you very much, Kelly. I greatly appreciate it. He is the WBA Super Welterweight World Champion. As we all know, he captured the world title by defeating Rigoberto Alvarez, who is Canelo's brother, on February 5th, one day after my birthday in Guadalajara, Mexico.

He did beat a very tough and in his prime Miguel Cotto to defend his world title in a very impressive fashion in hostile territory out at Miguel Cotto's second home at the Garden in New York. He's no stranger to going to people's backyards and winning fights inside that squared circle.

He is fighting for the Unified World Title on April 20th. With a record, an impressive record I may add, of 26-0 and 14 knockouts, out of Las Cruces, New Mexico, Austin Trout.

Austin Trout

Thank you all for being here. I'm very excited about this coming fight April 20th. I've said this many times before, this is a fight that should happen, two undefeated fighters, to undefeated champions in their prime and put it all on the line.

I'm praying that after this win it'll put me in a position to be your superstar like we want to be. But first things first is we have to get through this beast called Canelo. So I'm very happy to be here and shoot away. I'm an open book.

Q

Hey, when you and Louie look at Canelo do you see a one-trick pony, a guy that's strong but a fairly uncomplicated fighter or do you see skills and suddenly they're really going to challenge your skills.

Trout

No, no, he definitely has skills that are going to challenge my skills. He's fast. He's strong. He has good reflexes. He's explosive. As far as the style goes, we've been fighting his style our whole life. We don't think his style's necessarily going to give us problems but the skills that he brings within that style are going to be a bit of a problem.

Q

Canelo said earlier that he feels like his boxing skills are under appreciated. By the same token, do you feel like maybe your punching power is underestimated?

Trout

I definitely do. In every fight I've been in I've marked up everybody I've fought. They've been reluctant to come in and I've fought in super middleweights and middleweights and I've hurt them and even dropped them. So I think my punching power is very underestimated.

Q

Hey, I just wanted to ask you, I mean when you talked about that skill within his style, obviously it's his punching power. How do you know that over the course of 12 rounds that you can stand up to the power that you're going to see from Canelo?

And obviously the other factor is sort of the home arena advantage that he will probably have in Antonio. Is that something that's going to affect you or not? Thank you.

Trout

It's never affected me before and I don't plan on it affecting me again. The crowd can't do anything but cheer for him. They can't even give him water. They can't breathe for him. They can't punch for him. So I'm not worried about the crowd.

And about surviving his power for 12 rounds, you know, we've been in with stronger guys for 12 rounds and we banged out stronger guys for 12 rounds. I'm not saying I'm not worried about it. Of course that's why we're training and we're having such a hard camp to make sure that we're prepared for that, but I don't see it being a major factor, especially if we execute our game plan.

Q

Hey, the comparisons have been made to the Chavez/Whitaker fight and I think it's a good comparison, a great Mexican champion against a good African American southpaw. Have you watched that fight, because Canelo says he has, and do buy into the history and the comparisons between this fight and that one?

Trout

I do see a very similar comparison. First of all, let's just say "Sweet Pea" is my favorite fighters. But the thing of it between me and "Sweet Pea" is that I could punch a bit. There are things I saw that he did in the fight that he could've done to make it a lot less close that he could've done to pull away from Chavez.

The best way to not let history repeat itself is knowing your history. So yes, I've definitely watched the fight. We'll make our adjustments because Chavez Sr. is not Canelo and I'm not Sweet Pea. But there are very similar comparisons.

Q

Okay. My second question is you fought in hostile territory before most impressively, I guess, in your last fight against Cotto. Put us in the ring with you that night in how you were able to shut out the crowd. I mean you said you were going to do that and do you anticipate being able to do that again?

Trout

One thing I was saying is that if they're going against me my goal is to set them up, not give them anything to cheer for and that's the same mind set we're going into this fight. If they've don't have anything to cheer for then they won't be able to cheer.

I know in the beginning, of course, while they're excited they're going to cheer for everything he does. If he sneezes my way they'll go and get excited for it, but eventually as the fight goes on you'll see the crowd getting quieter and quieter or even switch to my side like they've done before.

Q

My question is on the Whitaker/Chavez theme the real comparison I think you obviously would like to avoid is the outcome. Whitaker, by most accounts, won that fight pretty handily, yet he was given a draw.

Are you worried about getting a fair shake? The crowd's going to be very pro Alvarez. Does that worry you about getting a fair shake in this fight?

Trout

It does a bit. We know Texas is a WBC country, but I can't focus, I can't use any energy to dwell on things I can't control. All I can do is just focus on what I can control and that's what I have to do in the ring.

We don't want to go out of the game plan. We don't want to break character to force something that's not there. So we're going to just stick to our guns and make sure that we do our absolute best and if it goes to the judges then it's really in God's hands. If the judges want to jerk me, that's between them and God and I have to ask for that later.

Q

One other question, I think I read something about something you do in the Las Cruces area called "Club KO" or something like that. Are you actively involved in that and going to schools in that area?

Trout

Yes, we definitely are. Club KO is just a little club I put together where I go and try to KO some things that are problems in school. One of them is bullying. Another one is peer pressure. And we just try to give them some kinds of tools that they can use to get out of a bad situation that they're in and by doing that we end up knocking out these problems.

Q

Now when you fought Miguel late last year and you got the win that was sort of what everybody would view as your defining fight. You took on one of the biggest names and one of the best fighters in the weight class. To those who weren't that familiar with Austin Trout you proved yourself and probably made a lot of fans with that fight.

I'm wondering, Canelo is in a similar situation and he's got a lot of the fans but a lot of fans want to see him prove himself against one of the elite fighters in the 154 pound weight class. I'm wondering what you think it says about him that he went and demanded to fight you, which not a lot of guys demand to fight Austin Trout? What was your reaction to knowing that this was the one and only fight that he really wanted?

Trout

I have much respect for Canelo for demanding this fight. Some people don't want to fight Austin Trout, but when his people didn't want him to fight me then he made his demands known and as a hungry true champion should he called out for the best. So there's much respect to him for that and for putting his foot down and making that happen.

And I just thank the fans as well because I think it was the outcry from the fans that put the pressure to make him make those demands.

Q

Okay. And also one of the things that he mentioned in his portion of this call was talking about one of his great motivations for making that demand, really wanting to fight you, besides unifying the titles and have a big fight against another champion was his desire and motivation for revenge because you had defeated his older brother when you won your title. So I wanted to know your take on trying to now go 2-0 against family, Alvarez, Canelo certainly regarded as the better of the two?

And also if you could talk about what you mentioned to me on Twitter a little while ago about your thoughts about the rematch clause being one way action for him but not for you? Thank you, Austin. Good luck in the fight.

Trout

Thank you. It's all motivation. It really has nothing to do with him or his brother. But with the legacy he's considered one of the best so we want to fight the best. He also has that WBC belt and one of my goals is to be the undisputed champion.

And I've had this goal since I was a young boy. So it's a lifelong work that I've been putting in to make this goal happen. That is more motivation, in my opinion, than a two-year old revenge policy that he's going for.

We beat his brother two years ago and now it's so important now? I'm not buying it because if that was the case he'd be trying to fight Mundine and Rubio and some other guys that beat his brother. I'm not the only one.

But it's all motivation. To be 2-0 against the Alvarezes will be great, but more importantly, to beat somebody who's considered the best and to take that WBC belt, those are my motivations and I think those are imperative for my legacy.

Q

And what about the rematch clause stuff?

Trout

Yeah, the rematch clause is only one way. When I win the clause could be in effect, but if he wins they go about their business. It shows to me a lack of confidence in their fighter. My team believes in me 100% against anybody.

And I know, as you know, De La Hoya and Richard Schaefer tried to not make this fight happen at every turn. When they changed the fight from Vegas to San Antonio there was talk of Angulo being their pony, but that's when Canelo put his foot down, like a champ, and said, "No, I want Trout."

They tried hard not to make a fight, but I wonder how they must feel for him knowing that your team doesn't have the utmost confidence in you. I don't know that feeling. My team believes in me.

Q

It's been well documented that there have been plans for the two of you to fight on the under card of Floyd Mayweather vs. Robert Guerrero on May 4th but Canelo ended up not taking the fight on that day and he's said multiple times that he wants to be Floyd's next opponent.

Does this desire of his to fight Mayweather down the road strike you as a bit of a sign of disrespect, like he's looking through you and towards his next possible opponent?

Trout

I don't necessarily think its disrespect. If he is overlooking me that's better for me because regardless if he wants to fight, whoever he wants to fight later, he still has to deal with me on April 20th. I look at it as an advantage if they are looking over me, which they definitely shouldn't.

He's been doing this a lot and things just haven't been going his way. So I like the trend that he's setting with this whole overlooking people.

Q

Canelo has approached superstar status in the world of boxing and while he has certainly put together an impressive resume, fans, even with victories against Miguel Cotto, have been a little bit slower to come around in support of you. Do you feel uncomfortable being perceived by some as a B-side of some of these big fights that you're being put on?

Trout

No, no, I don't feel uncomfortable as being the B-side. I mean I'm more comfortable as the A-side but it doesn't bother me because really the B-side is a matter of state of mind. I don't feel like I'm on the B-side, no matter what people say.

And I'm coming to win. I'm not coming for a paycheck. If you look at the pay you'll see that that's clearly right, that I'm not coming for just a paycheck. I'm coming for the win. I'm coming for the respect. That's what I'm fighting for, to get the respect in this game that I feel like I deserve.

Q

Hey, Austin, it seems like a lot of fighters are apprehensive about going on the road to fight someone like say Canelo in front of 35,000 fans. You seem to take great pride in it.

So until you are able to establish yourself as a hometown attraction do you feel like this is going to be your legacy, like you're going to be boxing's next road warrior, if not already?

Trout

Definitely. I feel like the fighter that just fights at home and claims to be a world champion is not representing the world correctly. Even after the fact where I feel like I've established myself, as a hometown attraction I still wouldn't mind traveling and extending my belts around the world.

The greats did it. Ali did it. He fought all over the place. Plus I like to travel and I like to see other people in their cultures. It's not a problem for me at all.

Q

You brought up the great champions like Ali. Do you feel like you're helping put the world back in world champion, because a lot of guys, they got comfortable just fighting at home, fighting in the U.S.? You're ready to become the globetrotter?

Trout

Definitely. I would love to bring it back to the golden age where the best fought the best, where we could have these wonderful trilogies or things like that. And again, traveling around the world to defend a world title-we're trying to represent the world as a champion.

Q

Austin, talk a little bit about that just. You know El Paso. It's a boxing town. You're just right next door to us but you also have the Hispanic culture that might go for Canelo.

How big is this fight? I mean do you see it just being-it's an elite fight. You two are elite fighters. You guys are going at it for one night. And you know, one of you guys are going to come out on top.

Trout

I think it's just huge for boxing. This is the type of fight that could bring back boxing to the golden age where Leonard's, Duran's and the Hagler's all fought each other. I think that me and Canelo are leading by example on what a world champion should do and how they should fight.

And as far as El Paso goes, I know me being born in El Paso, raised in Las Cruces, New Mexico, I'm sure we've got a great division going there because the Mexican blood is thick. I'm just glad that I could be a part of this type of event.

Q

Austin, I wanted to ask you a little bit, obviously boxers have great confidence, very, very confident individuals, but after your win against Cotto was that just bumped up a couple more notches and you felt like, "Hey, I could take on anybody?"

Trout

To be honest, I knew I could win. I had to prove it to everybody, same thing here. So my confidence...all I ask for is a chance to prove my work and what a great way with an undefeated champion like Canelo Alvarez.

Q

I wanted to ask you, do you think your fight in New York, fighting in front of Puerto Rican fans is going to help you for this fight down in San Antonio with the Mexican fans? And also, do you think you're going to help start a new tradition seeing that it's Fiesta weekend down there and there are probably going to be a lot of people out there, probably over 40,000, you think so?

Trout

I hope we can start a tradition and not just with San Antonio but just with a fight like these going forward. Like I said, there are fights that should happen. If you have a belt, then your next move should be to get another belt, to unify divisions.

I definitely feel like the Garden experience is going to help me prepare for this fight. The fight in the Garden was hostile but it wasn't as big. So it's a step up from the fight in the Garden. But nonetheless, like I said, God puts me on the path to prepare me for things like this and I feel like everything I've been through is working for helping me become on a stage like this.

Q

Okay, you're making this a family affair by taking on Canelo. How do you feel knowing that you could win another world title by defeating another member of the same family?

Trout

It's all pretty much a coincidence, to be honest. His brother had a belt. He has a belt. It's not like I'm gunning for the Alvarez family. I'm not trying to be the Alvarez destroyer or anything like that. But if another one of the brothers does catch a belt, well then he'd be on my hit list too, you know what I mean?

Q

Okay, and the most famous fighter to come out of New Mexico was the late Johnny Tapia. Did you grow up watching Tapia and admiring him? Did you by any chance get to meet him coming up?

Trout

I got to meet him, definitely. I did watch him growing up and actually Johnny Tapia, when I saw him on TV, as a world champion, he showed me that I didn't have to go to Philly or to these other places where I thought you had to be to be a good pro in order to make it as a world champion. I could stay in Cruces. Him and Louie Burke and Danny Romero, they all paved the way for me to be able to stay in New Mexico and perfect my craft.

Trout

No, this is going to be a great event. I'm expecting nothing less but the best from Canelo. We know what we brings to the table and I'm more than happy to match him in intensity and fierce. Expect fireworks. This is going to be a good fight.

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