Boxing Quotes: Peter Manfredo Jr

CES puts on the “Homecoming King” fight card November 3rd at Twin River Events Center in Lincoln, RI, headlined by Peter Manfredo Jr vs. Jhon Berrio.

Peter Manfredo, Jr.: “It’s been a long road back the past two years. I fought for the IBO super middleweight title but Sakio Bika was a lot stronger and bigger. I was too small (to fight as a super middleweight). Some of those guys weighed in at 168 but were a lot heavier for the fight. I sacrificed to get down to 160 and I’m coming back here as the IBO Middleweight Champion for all of my family, friends and fans.

“We’re going to put on a helluva show. Jimmy Burchfield has been very important to me and my career since I turned pro in 2003. I’m signed with DiBella Entertainment but fighting at home on Jimmy’s card. I wouldn’t have it any other way.

“Jhon Berrio’s a tough kid with 15 wins and 11 knockouts. I’ve been in with the best 168 pounders, nobody’s going to be beat me at 160. I have to get past November 12th but I plan to be fighting bigger and better fights. I’m 30 years old now. This is what I do – I’m a fighter — and everybody will see it November 12th.”

Joe Gardner: “This is going to be an exciting fight. It’s a match-up I didn’t think I’d see. Keith and I are kind of close in the gym. We’ve had some hardcore fights, wars in the gym.”

Keith Kozlin: “I really like fight at Twin River, it’s a beautiful place. Jimmy always puts on great fights there. I have a tough opponent. Joe Gardner’s always in shape, ready to fight. I’m training hard to put on a great fight.”

Aleksandra Magdziak Lopes: “I really appreciate getting a spot on this card. My opponent is fast, tall and coming off a good win. We’re going to put on a great show.”

Johnathan Vazquez: “I’ve had two fights for CES and I’m looking forward to my third. I’m in good shape and will bring it all out to put on a good show.”

Thomas Falowo: “It feels good to get a chance to step up (make his pro debut), especially in front of a home crowd. I’m ready to go.”

Odias Dumezil: “This is my first time in Providence. I’m training hard to give you a good show.”

Eric Estrada: “I want to thank the fire department (Estrada is a Providence Fire Fighter) for all of its support and to everybody helping me get ready at Big Six Academy. I’m 2-0 with two knockouts and on the 12th I plan to be 3-0. I’m in great shape, as always, and confident I’m will do what it takes to get another ‘w.’

Jesse Barboza (emailed message: “I am extremely excited and honored to share the stage with all of these admirable fighters. I have been preparing for this rematch since the minute I stepped out of the ring May 7th (lost a split decision to his Nov. 12th opponent Winston Thorpe). I promise that this fight will show every ounce of dedication, willpower and strength that I have as a fighter.”

Bill Mofford: “I haven’t fought for quite a while (April, 2004). My life got a little hectic – I had kids and bought a house – and boxing had to go. But I’m back bigger, better and smarter than before. I believe I can be a force in this business. I’ll give it everything I’ve got.”