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Growing up in Colombia , Yonnhy Perez would go as a chef on Halloween, “or maybe Dracula,’’ he said, “because where I’m from Halloween is called the Day of the Witch.’’
When the unbeaten, No. 1-ranked Perez (19-0, 14 KOs) of Santa Fe Springs, Calif., by way of Colombia, challenges IBF bantamweight champion Joseph King Kong Agbeko (27-1, 22 KOs) of Bronx, N.Y., by way of Accra, Ghana, this Saturday in the main event at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas on Showtime (9 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast), he says he’ll “come dressed as a world champion.
“I’m very excited for this opportunity and that all the hard work I’ve put in has paid off. I’m not Vic Darchinyan (who Agbeko convincingly outpointed in his last title defense). I’m bigger, stronger and busier. I won’t load up for one shot. I’ll be throwing punches from the opening bell. Saturday is going to be my night.’’
Countered Agbeko, who has predicted a knockout victory: “This isn’t a costume ball, it is a fight and Saturday I’m going to be the one leaving the ring with the belt. That’s Perez’ dream (to become world champion) and I respect that. All fighters should feel that way.
“I think Perez is a very good fighter who is good enough to one day become a world champion. But he’s not going to become IBF bantamweight champion. Not against me, not this Saturday, anyway. Perez is going to get a real dose of what reality is when he fights me.’’
Tickets priced at $200 each, plus tax and fees can be purchased at the Treasure Island box office or by calling (866) 712-9308 or (702) 894-7723. Don King Productions and Treasure Island will present the event. Agbeko-Perez and DeMarco-Alfaro are presented in association with Gary Shaw Productions.
What the fighters said Tuesday:
Joseph Agbeko: “I am not underestimating Perez. He is very strong and well-conditioned, and, at 19-0, he’s made himself into a very good fighter. I look forward to him giving me a good fight. I am not saying it will be easy, but I know I am going to enjoy myself this Saturday in the ring.
“It’s my destiny to continue to win all my fights, whether they are tough or easy, to prove I am the best fighter. I am definitely leaving that ring with a victory.
“This is my second fight in Las Vegas and the second time I’ve been on Showtime. I made my pro debut in Las Vegas and love it. Las Vegas has the life, the lights and a boxing spirit and history. I love seeing my name and likeness on the marquee in front of Treasure Island . I’m up in lights on the famous Las Vegas Strip. It gives me motivation to do great things.
“Fighting on Showtime again makes it all that much better.’’
Yonnhy Perez: “My weight is perfect and I feel great. This is the biggest opportunity a fighter can get, but I am trying to treat it like it is another day at the office. Although, I know it is not.
“Agbeko talks a lot. He came to my gym for a workout last week and told everybody he was going to knock me out. He keeps saying that, and it gets a little unnerving after a while. So, let’s see what happens.
“This fight is so very important. I have a lot of responsibilities. I support a lot of my family and friends. So, this fight is not only for me. It is for them. I don’t plan to let anybody down.’’
