Boxing News Boxing News
In a legitimate “Fight of the Year” candidate, WBO Welterweight Champion Antonio Margarito (34-4, 1 NC, 24 KOs) will defend his title against unbeaten, No. 1 contender Paul Williams (32-0, 24 KOs) in the main event on “Pride N’ Punishment” Saturday, July 14, 2007, at the outdoor tennis stadium at The Home Depot Center in Carson, Calif.
Andre Ward (12-0, seven KOs), of Oakland, CA, will face an opponent to be announced, while Cristobal Arreola (20-0, 18 KOs), of Riverside, CA, via East Los Angeles, will meet Derek Berry (12-8-1, five KOs), of Rialto, CA. Cortes (19-1-1, 14 KOs), of San Jose, CA will box a foe to be announced. The event is presented by Goossen Tutor Promotions.
Tickets, available for as low as $25, are on sale at TicketMaster outlets and online at www.TicketMaster.com, as well as The Home Depot Center Box Office (open Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.). The first bout on July 14 will begin at 5:30 p.m. PT.
Andre Ward:
“I was recognized in the amateur circles, but I wasn’t talked about in the boxing magazines. I wasn’t expected to win a gold medal. I don’t know if I will ever be “the next biggest thing.’ I know I will be respected.”
“I can’t wait to get in the ring. I’m anxious and excited. I had a great training camp and it’s going to show on July 14. I don’t take any opponent lightly. I always come in well prepared and motivated to fight.”
“It’s going to be a great fight. Boxing fans are going to see a skilled and hungry fighter that night. I am who I am. I don’t have to put on an act.”
Cristobal Arreola:
“I get really anxious in the days leading up to a fight. If I could, I would fight tomorrow but I have to be a little more patient than that. Physically, I feel great. I feel like I can run through a brick wall and not get hurt, that’s how strong I feel.”
“I always train for the full-length of the fight. I don’t go in expecting to knock someone out by the third round. That kind of thinking can get you in trouble.”
“A fight is a fight no matter where it’s at. I’ll fight anywhere against anyone. But since this fight is in Los Angeles, my hometown area, it’s a little more special to me. I want to give the fans an exciting fight to watch.”
Ricardo Cortes:
“I’ve been waiting for this fight for a long time. I haven’t fought in a year so it’s been a long time coming. I sparred with heavier guys for this fight. It helped a lot in my power punches and movement. I don’t think I’ll have any ring rust. I’m always in top shape so I don’t think its going to be a problem.”
