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LEO SANTA CRUZ WINS BATTLE OF LOS ANGELES OVER ABNER MARES IN MEMORABLE SHOWDOWN ON PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON ESPN FROM STAPLES CENTER 

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In Co-Main Event Julio Ceja Stops Hugo Ruiz In Super Bantamweight Bout
 
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Credit: Suzanne Teresa, Premier Boxing Champions
 
Los Angeles, CA (August 29, 2015) – In a battle of Southern California featherweights, Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz, (31-0-1, 17 KOs) defeated Abner Mares, (29-2-1, 15 KOs) by majority decision in a fight reminiscent of Mexican wars between boxing legends Marco Antonio Barrera and Erik Morales on Saturday night. Scores tallied 117-111 twice and 114-114 in front of a raucous crowd of 13,109 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles for the Premier Boxing Champions on ESPN main event.
With savage uppercuts and brutal power shots from the opening bell, the combatants threw more than 2,000 punches combined with Santa Cruz connecting 35 percent of his total 1,050 punches and Mares connecting 23 percent of his 980 total punches.
In the third round, Mares was cut from an accidental head-butt, with blood sporadically continuing to pour throughout the fight. Santa Cruz took advantage of the distracted Mares in the fourth drilling him with body shots. During the fifth stanza a second accidental head-butt opened an additional cut on the forehead of Mares.
Mares fought his way back into the fight in the sixth and seventh rounds, but Santa Cruz caught a much needed second win starting in the eighth and swept the championship rounds. The fight’s brutal ebbs and flows culminated in a epic 12th round with Santa Cruz and Mares throwing non-stop power shots to close the fight.
Opening the Premier Boxing Champions on ESPN telecast Julio Ceja, (30-1, 27 KOs), of Tianepantia, Mexico won with a sensational fifth round stoppage of Hugo Ruiz, (35-2, 30 KOs) of Los Mochis, Mexico. Ceja suffered a third round knockdown but came back to floor Ruiz in round five and earned the victory after swarming the staggered Ruiz. Time of the stoppage was 2:34.
Undefeated lightweight prospect Alejandro Luna, (19-0, 14KOs), of Bellflower, California, dominated and stopped veteran Sergio Lopez, (18-9-1,12 KOs) in the fourth round. A barrage of punches resulted in the onslaught being stopped at the
:34 mark.

To the roar of the huge crowd at STAPLES Center, Alfredo “El Perro” Angulo, 24-5 (19KO’s), of Mexicali, Mexico, battered Hector Munoz, (22-16-1 (14KO’s) over five rounds of their scheduled ten round clash. With power punches from all angles, Angulo bloodied Munoz and dropped him in the fifth. Following that stanza, Munoz did not come out for round six with Angulo being awarded the well-deserved victory.

Local fan favorite Jessie Roman (20-2, 9 KOs) continued to impress with a dominant eight round unanimous decision over Huntington Beach, California’s Hector Serrano, 17-5 (5KO’s). Dropping Serrano in the seventh, Roman went on to win a unanimous decision by scores of 79-72 on all three scorecards.
Fighting out of Buenos Aires, Argentina, Brian Castano, 13-0 (9KO’s) was awarded a victory by disqualification over Jonathan Batista, 14-7, (7KO’s) at the 1:15 mark of the fifth round. After being dropped in the second round, Batista continuously resorted to low blows over the balance of the bout. Points were deducted from Batista three times over the third and fourth rounds before another low blow in the fifth resulted in the stoppage.
Middleweight prospect Alan Castano of Buenos Aires, Argentina making his U.S. debut improved to 9-0, (6KO’s) with a fourth round knockout of the valiant Thomas Howard, 8-5 (4KO’s) of Trenton, Michigan. Although not knocked down, Howard absorbed the full array of punches from Castano prior to the bout being stopped at the 2:11 mark of the fourth stanza.
Welterweights were featured in a six round bout as welterweight Anthony Flores, (9-0, 5 KOs), of Los Angeles, California won a majority decision over Curtis Morton, (3-5-3) of Harlem, NY. The battle featuring excellent two-way action throughout was scored 58-56 twice for Flores and 57-57.
In a scheduled ten round super middleweight bout, contender Paul Mendez, (20-2-2, 10 KOs) dropped Andrik Saralegui (19-3, 15 KOs), of Los Mochis, New Mexcio, twice in the second round. The Delano, California native earned the stoppage, as Saralegui did not answer the bell for round three.
Bantamweights were featured in the second bout as Isaiah Najera (1-1), of Yakima, Washington upset the pro debuting Antonio Santa Cruz (0-1), of Los Angeles, California via majority decision. Scores were 39-37 twice for Najera and 38-38. Antonio is the younger cousin of headliner Leo Santa Cruz.
 
In theopening bout of the afternoon, a four round lightweight clash, Jose Gomez of Los Angeles, CA improved to 3-0 with a spirited unanimous decision over ManualRubalcava (2-14), of Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. Scores were 40-36 on all scorecards.
Here is what the fighters had to say:

Leo Santa Cruz:
“I was surprised Abner came out so strong. He came right at me but we figured him out and we got the win.
“I stayed outside with the jab. We were able to take control.
“My dad told me that we could beat him by boxing. We want to be aggressive but tonightwe had to box him too and that’s how we got it done.
“If he wants the rematch I’ll give him the rematch. I want to fight the best. I want the big fights.
“I’m very happy. This is a dream come true. I’m happy and excited and thankful to all of my fans who supported me.”
Abner Mares:
“It was a close fight, but I thought I won the fight. I thought I pulled it off.
“My plan was to box him, but I started out really fast. I felt good but my corner told me to box more, so I did that. It was a good fight.
“Leo is good. He’s a great fighter. I knew it was going to be a tough fight.
“I’m more than willing to have a rematch. It was a close fight. I knew he had never faced a fighter like me and he proved today he’s a great fighter.
“The fans were the winners tonight. It was a great fight for the fans. I think I deserve a rematch and I think the fans deserve another show.
“It was my mistake. I started really good, but along the way I changed my plan for some weird reason and I don’t know why I did it.”
Julio Ceja:
“I was well prepared, but I was surprised I got dropped. I felt mentally and physically good after that and I knew I was going to come back.
“At first it was difficult because Ruiz was moving too much, however I knew I was going to win.
“I hope Leo Santa Cruz goes back up to super bantamweight so I can fight him next.”
Alfredo Angulo:
“I feel really good. I worked and used my jab. I’ve never used my jab too much and tonight I tried to use it more and more and more.”
“When I fought in June, it had been a long time since I fought and I was fighting in a new weight class. To be honest, I was nervous and today I was more comfortable.”
“I could tell the the fans were behind me tonight and they motivate me to work even harder in each fight.”
Santa Cruz vs. Mares, a 12-round featherweight bout on Premier Boxing Champions on ESPN on Saturday, August 29 aired live from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles and was promoted by TGB Promotions.
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PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON ESPN FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Leo Santa Cruz & Abner Mares Face-Off Before
PBC on ESPN Showdown Saturday Night at STAPLES Center
 
Click HERE For Photos From
Suzanne Teresa/Premier Boxing Champions
 
LOS ANGELES (August 27, 2015) – With just days to go until their Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on ESPN showdown, Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz (30-0-1, 17 KOs)and Abner Mares (29-1-1, 15 KOs)faced-off at the final press conference at Club Nokia in Los Angeles Thursday before they enter the ring at STAPLES Center on Saturday, August 29.
Fighters participating on Saturday night’s undercard were also in attendance at Thursday’s press conference including exciting Mexican brawlers Hugo Ruiz (35-2, 31 KOs) andJulio Cesar Ceja (29-1, 26 KOs) who meet in a super bantamweight world title bout that opens the PBC on ESPN telecast at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. Joining them was undefeated Southern California prospect Alejandro Luna (18-0, 13 KOs) who also competes in undercard action, which begins in the arena at 2:05 p.m. PT Saturday.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $25, $50, $75, $150 and $300, not including applicable fees and service charges, and are on sale at AXS.com or by phone at 888-929-7849 or at STAPLES Center.
Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:
LEO SANTA CRUZ
“This is my dream since I was small. I wanted to be the main event and I worked hard for it. I never gave up. I’m so excited to be here in my hometown seeing my hard work paying off.
“I’m well prepared. This is the hardest fight of my career but that’s why I train hard. These are the fights I want because these are the fights the fans want.
“We’re going to go out with the intention of knocking him out. If we can’t, we’re still going to make a great fight for the fans and find a way to get the victory.
“I need this win for my legacy and to get to that next level. I’m here to fight the best.
“Every fighter has a weakness. When we get inside the ring we’re going to find it. We have a great game plan and it’s going to show on Saturday.
“I’m very motivated by keeping my 0 intact. I want to show the world that I deserve to fight the best. If I beat Abner, I can get to that next level. I’m very motivated to go out there and get the win.
“I think the crowd will be 50-50. We’re both from here so it’s going to be crazy. At the end of the fight it’s going to be rowdy. We’re excited that they’re showing love and we’ll give them a great fight.
“I can’t wait for Saturday night to give everybody a great show. You don’t want to miss it.”
ABNER MARES
“I think I’ve done enough talking. I’ve talked about how I’m going to beat him and I know I’m going to get it done.
“It’s here. I’m ready to put it to work. I’m going to do what I know how to do, which is fight and give it my all.
“I’m blessed to be here. I’m excited to be fighting at STAPLES Center. It shows all the hard work I’ve put in.
“I’m not worried about the crowd and who they’re rooting for. I’m there to make everybody a believer. It’s going to be an amazing atmosphere and I can’t wait.
“I’ve definitely faced tougher opponents than he has. I’ve been in against legitimate champions. I’m taking him to deep waters.
“My loss is completely forgotten. In life you have obstacles, especially in this sport. I’m over it. I’m back. This is where I want to be. When I fight guys the level of Leo Santa Cruz it brings the best out of me.
“It’s time. It’s time to give everybody a “Fight of the Year”. There’s no doubt. I’m going to go in there and have fun.”
HUGO RUIZ
“I’ve worked very hard and conditioned myself to be my very best. This is what I’ve dreamed about since my pro debut. I made my debut eight years ago and this has always been on my list of goals and now I have that opportunity.
“My opponent is a great fighter. I’m a great fighter. This is everything that I covet. I want to thank Los Angeles for supporting these fighters.
“It gives me butterflies to think about the big stage on Saturday, but it is really an honor. I’m in spectacular condition to put on a great performance on Saturday.
“What Ceja and I will do on Saturday is put on a spectacular performance. I promise an amazing fight. The ring will be hot and ready for the main event.”
JULIO CESAR CEJA
“I’ve trained very hard and I’m very focused. My conditioning is fantastic. Being on this card means a lot because of two great Mexican warriors that are headlining.
“This is huge for three reasons: because it’s a world title, because I want to be victorious and because I am making my U.S. debut. This is all very important to me.
“The loss I suffered is in my past. I tossed it away and put it in the rear view mirror. My focus is strictly on this opportunity. I’m not going to have any excuses. I think I’m more motivated mentally, physically and spiritually than I was for my last world title challenge.
“I am glad that Hugo Ruiz is prepared because I am ready to put on a great performance Saturday. It will live up to the magnitude of this great event.
“It’s been an extensive training camp in Mexico and I’m focused and dedicated to showcasing my talents on Saturday.
“I can guarantee on Saturday the fans will get a great fight and a night of action.”
ALEJANDRO LUNA
“I’m really excited and grateful to be on this undercard. Mares and Santa Cruz are guys that I admire and look up to in this sport.
“It’s a little weird because I grew up in a cowboy family, but something about boxing captivated me as a kid. I went to the gym even though my dad didn’t want me to. I proved everyone wrong.
“I fought over a hundred amateur fights and now I’m here in this great position. My opponent is coming to fight. I’ve prepared myself one hundred percent. We’re here to give fireworks and you should expect fireworks.”
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.staplescenter.comand www.TGBPromotions.com. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @LeoSantaCruz2 @AbnerMares, @ESPNBoxing, @STAPLESCenter, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/STAPLESCenter andwww.facebook.com/ESPN. Follow the conversation using #PBConESPN.
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PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON ESPN – LEO SANTA CRUZ VS. ABNER MARES MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Leo Santa Cruz & Abner Mares Headline PBC on ESPN Live from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles
10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT
 
Click HERE For Photos From Suzanne Teresa
 
LOS ANGELES (August 26, 2015) – Boxing fans and media members gathered at Placita Olvera in Los Angeles Wednesday as fight week kicked-off for Premier Boxing Champions on ESPN headlined by Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz (30-0-1, 17 KOs) taking on Abner Mares (29-1-1, 15 KOs) on Saturday, August 29 from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.
Televised coverage begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT with a super bantamweight world title fight between Hugo Ruiz (35-2, 31 KOs)and Julio Cesar Ceja (29-1, 26 KOs).Mexican brawler and Southern California favorite Alfredo “El Perro” Angulo (23-5, 19 KOs)worked out for the fans that came out to Placita Olvera before he takes on Hector Munoz (23-15, 15 KOs) Saturday night.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $25, $50, $75, $150 and $300, not including applicable fees and service charges, and are on sale at AXS.com or by phone at 888-929-7849 or at STAPLES Center.
Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:
LEO SANTA CRUZ
“We both have a lot to prove. Neither of us wants to lose. I know he’s really hungry to get the victory. I don’t want my first defeat so I’m going to go out there and put a show on.
“I have to pressure him and stay on top of him. I have to do what I always do. If that doesn’t work, we have different plans. We know the way to victory.
“This is a huge fight for Los Angeles. Everyone in the city has wanted us to fight and now they’re going to get it.
“We’re excited and happy to give the fans a great fight. At the end, the best man will win.
“You’re going to see a lot of action. I train hard to bring action. That’s what I do. We’re going to break him down little by little.
“No one wants to lose. We’re going to leave everything in the ring. When two Mexicans fight each other it’s always bloody. We both have everything to lose.
“Fight by fight I’ve been learning and picking up new things. I am definitely a brawler but I can box too. I want to finish my opponent once I get in there.”
ABNER MARES
“It feels good to be fighting in my hometown. It’s been so long since I’ve been able to fight here in Los Angeles. Headlining at STAPLES Center means the world to me and my fans. I can’t wait for August 29.
“I’m going up against a young, undefeated, talented and strong Leo Santa Cruz. He’s never tasted defeat. All of that motivates me to go in there and be the first one to take him down.
“I’m past my loss and I’m looking toward a fourth world title and making history in this sport.
“Being in Los Angeles means so much to me personally. I work so hard for these opportunities. But it’s for everybody, my family, my fans and everyone. I work hard in the gym every day for them.
“My experience is going to be the difference in this fight. I’ve faced tougher opponents and been a three-time champion. Every time that I fight someone at this level, it brings the best out of Abner Mares.
“Everything I overcame has brought me here and made me the person that I am. I’m more determined now than I’ve ever been.
“I have to win. My gameplan is to get the win. I am in there to destroy. I know what I have to do.
“Anything is possible. He has a lot of talents but I’m going to take what comes my way and put in a great performance.”
HUGO RUIZ
“Winning this fight means everything. I am prepared for a great performance.
“I’m very happy and very motivated for this fight. I’m ready for Saturday night.
“Ceja is a great fighter but we prepared one hundred percent to win this. It’s going to be the best of Mexican boxing.”
JULIO CESAR CEJA
“This is a big opportunity for me and I am coming to knock Ruiz out. That is the plan.
“I want to be world champion. It is right in front of me. My time is here and I know I have the skills to get there.
“This is going to be a great fight for the fans. We are going to exchange and show our heart and the best man is going to win.”
ALFREDO ANGULO
“I’m honored to be part of a card of this magnitude. After my last victory I took one week off and got right back in the gym.
“Santa Cruz vs. Mares is great because I know that when two Mexicans get in the ring, they leave their heart and soul in there. I’m excited to put on a show for the fans in the arena Saturday and be part of a historic night.”
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.staplescenter.comand www.TGBPromotions.com. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @LeoSantaCruz2 @AbnerMares, @ESPNBoxing, @STAPLESCenter, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/STAPLESCenter andwww.facebook.com/ESPN. Follow the conversation using #PBConESPN.
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TOP MEDIA MEMBERS, FIGHTERS AND TRAINERS AT ODDS OVER WHO WINS LEO SANTA CRUZ VS. ABNER MARES PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON ESPN SHOWDOWN

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Live From STAPLES Center Saturday, August 29
10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT
 
LOS ANGELES (August 24, 2015) – With fight week officially underway, top media members, fighters and trainers offered up their fight night predictions for the highly anticipated featherweight match-up between Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz and Abner Mares headlining Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on ESPN Saturday, August 29 from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.
The long-awaited battle is considered to be one of the most evenly matched fights in the sport and fans can look forward to the best that boxing has to offer on basic cable as Premier Boxing Champions returns to ESPN for its third installment on the network.
Fitting in with the prevailing notion that this bout is a true 50-50 fight, the prognosticators were almost evenly split on their fight night predictions, with Santa Cruz slightly edging out Mares by a count of just 19 to 18 with two undecided.
The predictions were razor thin in every regard as current and former fighters favored Mares by a count of seven to five while trainers favored Santa Cruz by a margin of five to two with journalists split evenly having nine select each man.
Overall more experts believed Santa Cruz would win by knockout with a five to three advantage while Mares was picked more times to win by decision with a narrow 15 to 14 edge.
Here’s an explanation from each of the experts on how they see the action playing out August 29:
Julio Cesar Chavez Sr., Mexican Legend: Abner Mares W 12 – It’s a good fight that will end in a very close decision. If Abner Mares has the proper strategy, then he can make it. But Mares has to be in good condition, physically, and, mentally. If he is not, then Leo Santa Cruz can win.
Juan Manuel Marquez, Mexican great and four-division champion: Abner Mares UD 12 Leo Santa Cruz – I think Abner Mares will win because he is a more technical fighter and more experienced.

Leo Santa Cruz has the virtue of throwing good combinations, but has the defect sometimes in that he is very mechanical. Abner’s virtue is very technical and he also throws good combinations. His defect is he cannot stand many punches.

Teddy Atlas, ESPN: Leo Santa Cruz UD 12 Abner Mares – This stands to be the most substantial fight that Leo Santa Cruz has had. He’s had a terrific career so far, but this is the most significant step up in class of competition he will have faced.

There’s not doubt in my mind that Abner Mares has fought the much better competition throughout his career and he’s a better puncher and a slightly bigger guy. But I’m going to say that Santa Cruz wins a decision.

The way that Mares beats Santa Cruz is to have to hurt him, which is possible. But I also qualify it by saying that has to happen within the first five or six rounds, slow him down and take him out of that rhythm before Santa Cruz has gathered to much momentum and put rounds under his belt.

Santa Cruz comes forward and dominates you with truckloads of punches and eventually wears you down by keeping you so busy defensively that he has the upper hand. At the end of the day, I have to hang my hat on Santa Cruz to win a decision. Santa Cruz understands that this is the biggest fight of his career and he hasn’t learned how to lose, yet.

Tim Dahlberg, Associated Press: Abner Mares W 12 Leo Santa Cruz: I’m looking for Abner Mares to show flashes of greatness once again in a fight that really is a crossroads bout for both men.

This should be about as entertaining as it gets among the little guys, and will be a close competitive fight. I like Mares by decision in a tough scrap, handing Leo Santa Cruz his first loss.

 
Peter Quillin, former world champion, fights Michael Zerafa Sept. 12 on NBC: Leo Santa Cruz SD 12 Abner Mares – I honestly like them both. I like Leo Santa Cruz because he’s relentless with pressure and lots of punching. Mares is very strong and a good boxer. I think Santa Cruz wins by a split-decision in a really good fight
 
Paulie Malignaggi, former two-time champion: Abner Mares UD 12 Leo Santa Cruz- In a good fight, I’m picking Abner Mares. He seems a bit more versatile than Leo Santa Cruz and has been in with better opposition. That experience can help a lot when your opponent doesn’t have it.
 
Ronnie Shields, trainer of Erislandy Lara: Leo Santa Cruz UD 12 Abner Mares – It’s a good fight, but I like Leo Santa Cruz because he’s more of a boxer. Abner Mares is the bigger puncher, but Santa Cruz, the kid just fights to the level of his competition. I really like Santa Cruz and I think that he’s going to win a good fight by a close, unanimous decision.
 
Virgil Hunter, trainer of Andre Berto, Amir Khan:  Abner Mares SD 12 Leo Santa Cruz – If Abner Mares boxes and uses his legs, he can present some problems to Santa Cruz, who sacrifices his height a lot. Being as tall as he is, he often squares up and fights too close.

That can play into Abner’s hands because he doesn’t have to worry about the reach. I would have to say this is a pick-em fight where it’s hard to give one fighter the edge. Abner can win, but he’s going to have to box. Leo can win with his volume punching. It’s just hard to pick a sure winner, but maybe Abner by a close split-decision.

 
Nigel Collins, ESPN: Abner Mares W 12 Leo Santa Cruz – Abner Mares has never looked quite the same since he was knocked out by Jhonny Gonzalez, but I think he still has superior skills compared to Leo Santa Cruz.

But it’s not going to be easy. Santa Cruz is a volume puncher and is going to be winging shots at Mares all night in a fast-paced, fan-friendly fight.  However, I think Santa Cruz’s aggression will give Mares the opportunity to catch him with counters and box his way to a narrow decision victory.

Brian Campbell, ESPN: Abner Mares TKO 9 Leo Santa Cruz – In this long-anticipated battle between Mexican-born action stars, don’t expect either man to take a step backward. Abner Mares, the shorter yet naturally bigger man, will need to dial back to his freewheeling and borderline reckless style of old in order to be most effective.

Mares will have advantages in power and is the more proven fighter at this weight class than Leo Santa Cruz. The jury is still out regarding just how good Santa Cruz really is. But if he ends up trapped in a firefight from start to finish, look for Mares to be the last man standing.

Deontay Wilder, heavyweight world champion, fights Johann Duhaupas Sept. 26 on NBC: Leo Santa Cruz TKO 11 Abner Mares – I’m going with my gut feeling and picking Leo Santa Cruz over Abner Mares. I see an 11th-round stoppage for Santa Cruz. I’m just going with a gut feeling on this one.
Keith Thurman, welterweight world champion: No pick – To be honest, I don’t have a pick. I’m just anticipating a good fight and a great performance between two great fighters.

I’ve seen both fighters fight but I can’t really break that one down. I like to be as accurate as I can be, and I don’t feel comfortable picking one over the other. It’s a great matchup this year, when boxing’s doing its thing.

Claudia Trejos, ESPN: Abner Mares MD 12 Leo Santa Cruz – Either one has real KO power. But the fight is at 126 pounds, where Abner Mares is most comfortable. This is a jump for Leo Santa Cruz.

Mares’ experience against top level opponents is an important element as well. If we the same Mares that showed up versus Anselmo Moreno, this would be new territory for Santa Cruz due to his limited experience against top quality fighters.

Nonetheless, I respect the high volume, high-octane fighter we find in Santa Cruz. It is always a crowd-pleasing style that can tantalize the eyes of the judges.

Bob Velin, USA TODAY Sports/Boxing Junkie: Abner Mares UD 12 Leo Santa Cruz – Leo Santa Cruz is one of the best pure boxers in the sport today. But Santa Cruz has not faced the quality of competition Abner Mares has faced.

Since his stunning first-round KO loss to Jhonny Gonzalez two years ago, Mares has taken his game to another level. He is a better boxer and now says Santa Cruz, a former sparring partner, is not at his level. I wouldn’t go that far, but I believe Mares’ combination of boxing skills and punching power will be an edge against Santa Cruz.

Steve Farhood, Boxing Historian for Showtime & Premier Boxing Champions: Abner Mares W 12 Leo Santa Cruz – I think that it’s going to be a great fight, but I have the slight edge to Abner Mares. He’s naturally the bigger guy.

Leo Santa Cruz will be putting on the pressure, but Mares punches a little bit harder and Santa Cruz can be hit, and I just think that that power edge might give a slight advantage to Mares in a long very exciting fight.

Mitch Abramson, New York Daily News: Leo Santa Cruz KO 10 Abner Mares – I’ll take Leo Santa Cruz by 10th-round knockout over Abner Mares. I think that he’ll get stronger as the fight goes on and eventually overpower Mares. I think that his power will carry up into the 126-pound division.
Joe Santoliquito, BWAA President, RingTV.com: Abner Mares KO 9 Leo Santa Cruz- I’m going to with Abner Mares over Leo Santa Cruz. I just think that Abner still has a hunger about him that makes him a special fighter. I’m going to go with Abner by a knockout in the ninth-round.
Omar Figueroa Jr., former junior welterweight champion, fights Antonio DeMarco Sept. 26 on NBC: Abner Mares MD 12 Leo Santa Cruz- I think that unless Leo Santa Cruz is really, really smart, then he’s going to lose. I think that Abner Mares is stronger and obviously naturally bigger fighter, and it depends on Santa Cruz and whether he’s able to keep the distance.

Santa Cruz is going to have to keep Mares outside, because if Mares manages to get inside and he’s able to use his strength, then Santa Cruz will be in trouble. I think that it will be Mares by decision.

Fernando Guerrero, middleweight title contender, fights Caleb Truax Sept. 18 on Bounce TV: Leo Santa Cruz SD 12 Abner Mares – Leo Santa Cruz has been in a great position with his momentum, and I’ve seen Abner Mares fight and he’s a really good fighter also.

But I think that if I have to pick, I would go with Leo because his momentum has just been awesome and he doesn’t know what defeat is. They’re two strong fighters, even though Mares has that upset loss to Jhonny Gonzalez.

So they’re both really good fighters who are Mexican and when you have that, you’re always going to have a war. I don’t see a knockout, but I do see Santa Cruz winning by a split-decision.

Jake Donovan, BoxingScene.com: Abner Mares W 12 Leo Santa Cruz – Leo Santa Cruz was once among the hottest stars on the rise, but I believe missed his chance at becoming something special by failing to maximize his talents in the 122-pound division.

Abner Mares may not be the same fighter he once was when he was among the best in the world as an unbeaten champion over three weight classes, but I believe a reincarnation of sorts will take place.

A boxing match early becomes a slugfest late (despite the perception that Mares is more reserved these days), with Mares edging it in a fight that can go either way.

Ryan Songalia, RingTV.com: Leo Santa Cruz UD 12 Abner Mares – I like this fight a lot. It’s an all-action fight between two guys who won’t have to look for each other. I think that Abner Mares is a bit more versatile and has more options.

But Leo Santa Cruz is going to have to go out and do what he does and keep the punch volume up. I don’t think that Mares is a big enough puncher, so unless he can outwork Santa Cruz, I think that Santa Cruz wins a unanimous decision, maybe 8-4 in rounds.

Bernard Fernandez, Philly.com: Abner Mares TKO 8 Leo Santa Cruz- I presume that this is one of the fights that does not go to the scorecards. I’m sitting on the fence a little bit, but I’ll tip one way to Abner Mares over Leo Santa Cruz in the eighth round by a technical knockout.
Shawn Porter, former welterweight world champion: Leo Santa Cruz UD 12 Abner Mares – I give that fight to Leo Santa Cruz. I’ve known Leo for a very long time. We fought in the amateurs together and made some national trips together, so obviously that’s where my heart lies.

But I think that overall, he’s got the work output and all of the intangibles to go with it to beat Abner Mares. I think that most likely the edge in the punching power will most likely go with Mares. But Mares seems to step back and admire his work where Leo just continues to work.

Mares is a very sharp fighter, but I think that in overall boxing ability, that I would go with Leo. Leo has a very high boxing pace and I think that he’s very smart in the ring and sees what he wants to see and throws what he wants to throw, accordingly.

Gary Russell Jr., 126-pound world champion: No pick – Between Abner Mares and Leo Santa Cruz, I honestly just can’t pick a winner. I believe that Abner brings more to the table and that he’s more of a well-rounded fighter than Leo is, but I don’t know how Abner’s going to deal with Leo’s overwhelming pressure.

It’s going to be really interesting to see how Abner tries to offset that. In the end, it’s going to be a really exciting fight but it’s a coin-toss for me.

I would love for Abner to win, because he’s got a bigger fan base and I would love to fight him. Either way, I’d love to get the winner God-willing we get through our next fight.

If I had to choose between who I’d rather fight between Leo and Abner, it would be Abner based upon his fan base. But it’s too difficult to pick a winner.

Thomas Gerbasi, Senior Editor for BoxingScene.com, Editorial Director for Zuffa (UFC / Strikeforce):Leo Santa Cruz UD 12 Abner Mares – While I love this long overdue matchup, Abner Mares doesn’t seem to be the same fighter he was before the Jhonny Gonzalez fight.

Maybe this is the fight for him to get his mojo back, but Leo Santa Cruz’s volume attack should allow him to take over in the middle and late rounds and earn him the decision.

Matt Richardson, Fightnews.com: Leo Santa Cruz W 12 Abner Mares- I think it’s a really great fight and a hard fight to pick, but I’d probably lean toward Leo Santa Cruz. I think that Abner Mares has lost a little confidence in his abilities after being brutally knocked out by Jhonny Gonzalez.

Then, to see Gonzalez get knocked out the way he did by Gary Russell, that has to affect Mares in some way, mentally. It’s a pick-em fight and an action fight that Santa Cruz wins by a close decision.

Ruben Guerrero, trainer & father of Robert Guerrero: Leo Santa Cruz KO Abner Mares – I’m going with Leo Santa Cruz.  He’s a bad-ass fighter.  Abner Mares is good too, but Leo is a bigger man and has a longer reach.

I think Leo will be too strong and powerful for Mares.  I’m picking Leo to win by knockout in the later rounds.

Kenny Porter, trainer & father of Shawn Porter: Leo Santa Cruz UD 12 Abner Mares- Right now I’m going to say Leo Santa Cruz. I look forward to that fight. Leo’s going to beat Abner Mares by a unanimous decision. I think that he will out-work him and out hustle him and out-box him.

Leo’s a combination guy and he’s boxing and he’s punching and he’s got pressure and he’s got the volume and he’s nonstop with his energy. He’s a hustler who is constantly moving and working.

Norm Frauenheim, The Ring magazine/www.15rounds.com: Leo Santa Cruz SD 12 Abner Mares: A rematch is probably the best pick. Abner Mares and Santa Cruz have been destined for this showdown. They know each other, as old friends and wary rivals.

In the here and now, however, it’s what they won’t know until opening bell.  Has soft opposition softened Santa Cruz? Is Mares still the tentative fighter he has been since getting KO’d by Jhonny Gonzalez?

The answers might determine the winner. But the guess here is that both will move beyond what the questions suggest, meaning a tough, edgy Santa Cruz and Mares at his aggressive, clever best.

That leads to the later rounds, when Santa Cruz will score with an advantage that isn’t a question. Despite going up in weight, Santa Cruz is longer. His three-inch advantage in reach will trouble Mares, forcing him to back pedal into a narrow scorecard loss that sets up the sequel.

 
Gary “Digital” Williams, Fightnews.com: Leo Santa Cruz UD 12 Abner Mares: I am leaning towards Leo Santa Cruz by unanimous decision.  Santa Cruz was very accurate and dominant in his last outing and I just think he will be too fast and accurate for Abner Mares. It should be a great fight.
Jermall Charlo, undefeated title contender, fights Cornelius Bundrage Sept. 12 on NBC: Abner Mares UD 12 Leo Santa Cruz – I’m going with Abner Mares. He’s a motivated fighter who wants to make up for his one loss. I’m thinking that he’ll win a 12-round decision.

Mares will try to load up, but that’s only going to be to push Leo Santa Cruz backward.
Santa Cruz is going to try to set the pace, but Mares is going to be the more dominant fighter in the end.

Jhonny Gonzalez, former champion: Leo Santa Cruz KO 8 Abner Mares – I believe that  Leo Santa Cruz will win by a knockout in the later rounds. Abner Mares is not the same since I knocked him out. Santa Cruz will waste himand then knock him out in the eighth round.
Jack Obermayer, Fight Fax Inc.: Leo Santa Cruz W 12 Abner Mares- I will take Leo Santa Cruz by decision based on his work rate. I think that Abner Mares is a little bit over the other side of the hill and that Santa Cruz will outwork him.
John J. Raspanti, Maxboxing.com/Doghouseboxing.com/Ringside Boxing Show: Abner Mares SD12 Leo Santa Cruz- Leo Santa Cruz versus Abner Mares is a classic 50-50 fight. Santa Cruz is a current junior bantamweight champion.

Mares is a former two-division champion. Santa Cruz, 27, is the younger man by two years.

Mares has fought stiffer competition–having battled the likes of former world champions Vic Darchinyan, Joseph Agbeko, Anselmo Moreno, and Jhonny Gonzalez.

I have a feeling the more experienced Mares will win the fight by a razor-thin 12-round split decision.

Robert Guerrero, former welterweight world champion: Abner Mares SD 12 Leo Santa Cruz – This is a very tough fight to pick because both guys, when they are on top of their game, can beat anyone in their division.

With that being said, I’m leaning toward Abner Mares because I believe he’s got the better boxing skills.  Leo Santa Cruz brings a lot of pressure and that could be troublesome for Abner.  I’m picking Mares to win a close split decision.

Chris Algieri, former junior welterweight champion: Abner Mares SD 12 Leo Santa Cruz- I’m going with Abner Mares by a split-decision based on experience and better competition.

This is a big fight for both men. Leo Santa Cruz is going to fight tooth and nail to keep that “0,” and Mares always brings it and will scrap till the finish. Should be a fun fight to watch.

Mikey Garcia, former champion: Leo Santa Cruz SD 12 Abner Mares – I actually think this fight is a toss-up. It all depends on which fighter can make the fight go their way. What I mean by that is Abner Mares is probably a more technical fighter and has more skills. He can box and he can punch and he can brawl if has to.

But for this fight, Mares has to use his skills and stay on the outside, use his jab and his right hand. That way, he can pull of a decision. On the other hand, Leo Santa Cruz is a come-forward volume puncher. If he can get that game plan going and keep Mares on the ropes and in the corners, he’s going to be scoring points and get the victory that way.

I think that I’m going to have to side a little more with Santa Cruz, because I think that his pressure is very difficult for a fighter. I think that Santa Cruz, by a small edge, might be able to pull it off. I think that it will be Santa Cruz by a split-decision.

Gary Russell Sr., father and trainer of champion Gary Russell Jr.: Leo Santa Cruz SD 12 Abner Mares – Leo Santa Cruz is going to come straight forward and constantly apply pressure. Abner Mares is going to try to box, but I think that he’ll be taken out of his comfort zone because of Leo’s pressure. I think it will come down to a split-decision win for Leo Santa Cruz.
Miguel Diaz, trainer, cut man: Leo Santa Cruz KO 8 Abner Mares – I worked about six or seven fights as the cut man in the corner of Abner Mares, and I worked the corner of an opponent against Leo Santa Cruz. Based on that, I would go in favor of Santa Cruz, 60-40, or, 55-45.

I think that Santa Cruz has shown a great chin and what you need to be a champion, and the other guy, Mares was knocked out by Jhonny Gonzalez, who is a good puncher. I think it will be a knockout in the seventh or eighth round.

Bob Santos, assistant trainer, Robert Guerrero: Abner Mares W 12 Leo Santa Cruz- Wow this is a tough one.  Abner Mares is the better boxer and Leo Santa Cruz is the better puncher.  Santa Cruz has never tasted defeat and that will be a very difficult task to overcome for Abner. I always go with the better boxer in these situations so I’m picking Mares to win by decision, but it won’t be easy.
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.staplescenter.com andwww.TGBPromotions.com. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @LeoSantaCruz2 @AbnerMares, @ESPNBoxing, @STAPLESCenter, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions,www.facebook.com/STAPLESCenter and www.facebook.com/ESPN. Follow the conversation using #PBConESPN.
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HUGO RUIZ BATTLES JULIO CESAR CEJA IN SUPER BANTAMWEIGHT WORLD TITLE FIGHT ON PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON ESPN SATURDAY, AUG. 29 FROM STAPLES CENTER IN LOS ANGELES 10 P.M. ET/7 P.M. PT

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Full Night Of Undercard Action Features Mexican Star Alfredo Angulo & Local Favorites Alejandro Luna, Jessie Roman & Paul Mendez
 
LOS ANGELES (August 20, 2015) – Mexican power-punchers Hugo Ruiz (35-2, 30 KOs) and Julio Cesar Ceja (28-1, 26 KOs) square off in a super bantamweight world title match as the televised opener for Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on ESPN and ESPN Deportes on Saturday, August 29 from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
The evening’s main event features the highly anticipated featherweight showdown between undefeated two-division world champion Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz (30-0-1, 17 KOs) and former three-division world champion Abner Mares (29-1-1, 15 KOs).
Also featured as part of this great night of boxing will be popular Mexican star Alfredo “El Perro” Angulo (23-5, 19 KOs), who will compete in a middleweight bout against Hector Munoz (23-15-1, 14 KOs).
Additionally, a slew of top prospects will be featured including local favorites Alejandro Luna (18-0, 13 KOs) who battles Yakubu Amidu (19-7-2, 17 KOs) in a 10-round lightweight attraction, Jessie Roman (19-2, 9 KOs) who takes on Hector Serrano (17-4, 5 KOs) in an eight-round welterweight battle and Paul Mendez (19-2-2, 9 KOs) who squares off against Andrik Saralegui (19-2, 15 KOs) in 10-rounds of super middleweight action.
Further action will see 25-year-old Argentine Brian Castano (12-0, 9 KOs) in middleweight action against the Domincan Republic’s Jonathan Batista (14-6, 7 KOs), plus his brother, 22-year-old Alan Castano (8-0, 5 KOs) taking on 23-year-old Michigan native Thomas Howard (8-4, 4 KOs) in a six-round middleweight bout. Rounding out the action will be fights featuring 25-year-old Anthony Flores (8-0, 5 KOs) out of Los Angeles taking on 32-year-old New Yorker Curtis Morton (3-4-3) in a welterweight battle, and the pro debut of Leo Santa Cruz’s cousin Antonio Santa Cruz who takes on Isaiah Najera(0-1)in a four round bantamweight bout.
A 28-year-old fighting out of Sinaloa Mexico, Ruiz enters this fight on a four-fight win streak and as winner of 26 of his last 27 fights. He owns victories over the likes of Jean Sampson, Yonfrez Parejo and Francisco Arce throughout a pro career that began in 2006. He most recently knocked out Carlos Medellin in November 2014 and will be making his U.S. debut on August 29.
The 22-year-old Ceja has won five-fights in a row and is looking to make the most of this world title opportunity. The fighter out of Atizapan de Zaragoza, Mexico will make his U.S. debut August 29 and is coming off of a victory over Oscar Blanquet in March of this year. He has taken down Jesus Acosta, Juan Jose Montes and Henry Maldonado as a pro.
A hard fighting Mexican warrior born in Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico but fighting out of Coachella, Calif., Angulois looking for another big victory in front of his Southern Californian fans. Always ready to challenge the best in the sport, the 33-year-old has gone toe-to-toe with some of the best fighters in the world and holds knockout victories over Gabriel Rosado, Joachim Alcine and Joel Julio while most recently earning a knockout victory over Delray Raines in June. He takes on the brawler Munoz out of Albuquerque, New Mexico.
At just 23-years old, Lunahas already put together an impressive 18 professional wins since turning pro in 2010. Fighting out of Bellflower, California, he most recently defeated former world champion Cristobal Cruz over eight rounds in June. Before that he had put together victories over experienced fighters Daniel Attah and Sergio Rivera while knocking out six of his last nine opponents. He takes on the experienced 30-year-old Amidu who fights out of Los Angeles by way of his native Ghana.
A tall lightweight at 5″10″, the 24-year-old Roman looks for his third straight victory onAugust 29. Fighting out of nearby Santa Ana, California, Roman has already won twice in Southern California this year, earning a pair of eight-round decisions over Donald Ward and Evincii Dixon. He takes on the 30-year-old Serrano out of Huntingon Beach, California who enters this fight on a five-fight win streak.
Another local prospect, fighting out of Delano, California, the 26-year-old Mendez looks for his sixth straight victory when he gets in the ring on August 29. He comes into this fight off of victories over David Alonso Lopez, Santiago Perez, Raul Casarez and Ernesto Berrospe twice. He will take on Saralegui out of Los Mochis, Mexico.
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.staplescenter.comand www.TGBPromotions.com. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @LeoSantaCruz2 @AbnerMares, @ESPNBoxing, @STAPLESCenter, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/STAPLESCenter andwww.facebook.com/ESPN. Follow the conversation using #PBConESPN.
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ABNER MARES LOS ANGELES MEDIA DAY QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Three Division World Champion Mares Takes On Undefeated Leo Santa Cruz In Battle For Los Angeles On Premier Boxing Champions On ESPN Saturday, August 29 Live From STAPLES Center In Los Angeles
10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT
 
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LOS ANGELES (August 18, 2015) – Former three division world champion Abner Mares was joined by dozens of Los Angeles media members today during his open media workout at his Del Mares Gym. Mares is preparing for his Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on ESPN showdown with Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz onSaturday, August 29 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.
Mares went through a full training session as media members watched on and documented the event. In addition, the Mexican band Banda Culiacansito performed a private concert as he went through his workout.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $25, $50, $75, $150 and $300, not including applicable fees and service charges, and are on sale at AXS.com or by phone at 888-929-7849 or at STAPLES Center.
Here is what Mares had to say Tuesday:
ABNER MARES
“All the work is done. I could go this whole week, not train and just recover because I’m that ready. I’ve done what I have to do.
“I feel really good. No injuries, no illness; I’m just really ready for August 29.
“I’m really excited. I know fans are excited but I’m also really excited to be fighting Leo Santa Cruz at STAPLES Center. I’m really looking forward to it.
“I cant think about the past because this fight is happening now. It’s finally here. Less than two weeks away.
“We’ll find out how our styles mesh on August 29. In my mind, I know I’m ready and I know his style. He is a high-volume puncher but we’ve prepared very well for that.
“It’s two well-prepared fighters in their prime. Expect fireworks. This is something fight fans have been asking for. I hope my fight can be considered one of the best once it’s done.
“It’s great to be here at my gym on my home turf. I started the hashtag #ThisIsMyTown because L.A. is my town. Leo can say whatever he wants but I’m at home and ready to put on a show.
“This is definitely the biggest fight of my career. I’m ready to fight anyone. I want Gary Russell Jr. and all the great fighters at this weight. It’s just a matter of taking care of business one by one.
“In my mind, after the loss, I left the top level of the game. I had to overcome some issues mentally, but now I’m back better than I ever have been. I’m going to go in there August 29ready to prove that. I’m going to make a statement that Abner Mares is back.”
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.staplescenter.comand www.TGBPromotions.com. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @LeoSantaCruz2 @AbnerMares, @ESPNBoxing, @STAPLESCenter, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/STAPLESCenter andwww.facebook.com/ESPN. Follow the conversation using #PBConESPN.
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PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON ESPN MEDIA CONFERENCE CALL TRANSCRIPT

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Kelly Swanson
Thank you, operator. Thanks so much everybody for joining us today and for the busy boxing calendar this month and next. We’re very excited about this fight and to talk with the main event Leo Santa Cruz and Abner Mares. Abner will open up the call.
But to tell you a little bit more about the fight and to make the introductions of the fighters, we have a very special guest joining us, Ray Flores. He is the voice of TGB Promotions and also will be the ring announcer for the fight.
Ray, welcome to the conference call and we look forward to hearing from you.
Ray Flores
Thank you very much, Kelly. We are very excited for the Battle of Los Angeles, Leo Santa Cruz and Abner Mares on Saturday, August 29th at STAPLES Center. Make sure you use the hashtag when talking about the fight, #PBConESPN, starts at 10 p.m. ET.7 p.m. PT, live on primetime and promoted by TGB Promotions.
Tickets begin at $25. And I will tell you this, to all you listeners and readers, they are going fast. Twenty-five dollars is where they start, AXS.com and also at the Staples Center box office.
This is a fight that’s been talked about for a very long time, 12-round matchup in the Featherweight Division. It is without question one of the most anticipated fights of the year, Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz and Abner Mares.
Also want to let you know that the undercard, which is going to be scintillating, is going to be announced in the coming days, plus the entire fight week festivities will be announced as we get set for a legendary night at the Staples Center. There have been so many amazing fights that have occurred at the Staples Center and also in Los Angeles in 50 years, and this fight without question is certainly going to live up to that billing if not surpass it.
Now just to let you know, coming up next Tuesday, August 18th, Abner Mares is going to open up the doors to the media for a media workout session. That is at Del Mares Gym, 6400 Garfield Avenue in the Bell Garden in California. So, please arrive, if you are in the media, at 10:30 a.m.. Abner will begin his workout promptly at11:00 a.m.
Also for those that are, because this is a tremendous fight and I know that there’s a lot of publicity and excitement also from the Latin media as well, I will go ahead and do a quick introduction in Spanish.
All right. Right now I’m going to go ahead and introduce the man you’re here to listen to first, with a record of 29-1-1 (15 KOs), he is a former three-division world champion, ladies and gentlemen, here is Abner Mares.
Abner Mares
Yes, sir. I can’t wait to be announced like on August 29th. I just have to say that I’m truly, truly excited, looking forward (to the 29th, give you guys, the) fight fans, the media, everybody in the boxing world. It’s a great fight against a great fighter in Leo Santa Cruz. Do not miss this fight. Do not miss this fight. Please come and support. Staples Center. If not, but not miss it on ESPN. Looking forward to another opportunity at a world title and another fight, another great fight. I’m really excited and looking forward to it.
Q
How much have you looked forward to this fight? How much have you personally looked forward to this particular showdown?
A. Mares
I’ve been looking forward to this fight for many years, many years fans have been excited, I’ve been wanting to fight. I’ve been calling out Leo this whole year, called him out on radio shows, in person. And it’s finally here. I’m really, really excited to fight. A couple of weeks away.
I know you’ve been in the boxing business for I don’t know how many years and fighters say this all the time, “Oh, I can’t wait, I wish it’s tomorrow.” But honest truth, I wish it was tomorrow. I am that ready and I am that focused, I cannot wait.
Q
Why do you think, Abner that the fight came together now instead of earlier? Neither of you are really bigger names than you were a few years ago.
A. Mares
I think at the end of the day our fighting styles that we both have, the fight is pretty much going to answer your question August 29th. If we look at, other fights where the names were big, the promotion was big they announced the fight super-big, and we all know what happened during fight time. We don’t need much of a name, my side or Leo’s, because this will be an exciting one.
So I think August 29th, we are going to make it a Fight of the Year. I have no question in my mind that that will be it. I think that answered your question. I know I suffered one defeat to a great fighter, Leo Santa Cruz is undefeated, he has not lost, he has not tasted defeat and he’s fighting a hungrier Abner Mares, and he’s a hungry fighter too. I don’t think the name is going to be an issue for the fight to be exciting.
Q
I was wondering if you thought maybe it might have happened a little bit sooner?
A. Mares
No. It could have but you know things happen for a reason and fights get made at weird times for business issues, but I think it’s the perfect time for both. Leo has more experience, he’s been fighting great, and myself, after my defeat, I’ve fought three times and my mindset is there. So I think it’s a perfect time for both.
Q
What are your thoughts about being the focus of that community in that building?
A. Mares
Yes. I’m excited. It’s not my first show. I don’t know if you remember it, but I fought Anselmo Moreno, main event. What I’m saying is, that it just is a big emotional event. I remember being the underdog for that fight because of Anselmo’s fighting style. They said it was the perfect fighting style, and Abner Mares was a soft, talented fighter. I proved everybody wrong. I gave everybody a good show and I think people left the arena happy. That’s what’s going to happen August 29th. I am not going to disappoint myself, I’m not going to disappoint my family, and sure enough, I’m not going to disappoint the boxing fans. It’s going to be a tremendous show. I’m ready to headline once again.
Q
Would it be safe to say that you want to entertain as much as win the fight or are you cool with winning the fight even if it’s not as entertaining but as long as you get the W. What’s your focus? It seems you’re ready to put on a show.
A. Mares
Yes. There’s no pressure. If anything, excitement. If anything, it’s just another day at work where it’s a big party. Family from all over Mexico, from all over it’s just a big party where I have to entertain on fight night. So yes, there is that pressure where you want to entertain the folks, but then you have that mindset where you can make it an easy fight and not so much entertaining. But you know what, I try to play both. I try to be more of a fighter in there, try to make it as easy as I can. But guess what, the Mexican heart, warrior comes out, and I make it a hard fight, and at the end of the day I just want the boxing fans to go home happy.
Q
Would you say this is a legacy fight for you, something that you need to win, so whenever you hang them up, you can be like, “Boom, we got that one at Staples Center.”
A. Mares
Honestly, I don’t see it like that. I mean fights get legendary after they’re done. I think that’s our job to make this fight one of the great ones. I think my job is just to go in there and give it a great fight. And the fight fans will be the judges of that. To me it’s just another fight, I’m not thinking of pressure in my head, just the fight.
Q
So, do you think in a way we’re going to see the best Abner Mares at this time in a big fight that we might not have seen a couple of years ago had the fight been made earlier?
A. Mares
No doubt. I was at the peak, I was at a great time in my career where I was a three-time world champion, undefeated and I look great. No doubt in my mind even now, after my defeat, I’ve become even a better fighter, because now I know what defeat is, now I know how to come back up and start all over. So it’s going to be the best Abner Mares. I think it’s the perfect time for me to focus on myself, I don’t care about him, for myself it’s the perfect time, and I can’t wait.
Q
Is this the most motivated you have felt in a long time fighting Leo Santa Cruz, and talk about the emotions and the drive?
A. Mares.
I do feel very motivated. I’m extremely focused. I can’t recollect the time where I felt like this. It would have to date back to when I was going after my first world title.
Q
What do you feel emotionally and mentally heading into the fight, and what do you want to go and demonstrate?
A. Mares
I want to just go and prove that I’m the better fighter coming up on August 29th, and I personally just want to go out and prove that I’m superior.
Q
What’s the feel in your camp, what is the mindset during training camp? And also, how significant is fighting Leo Santa Cruz and getting the victory over him?
A. Mares
Camp is going terrific and my outlook is very positive. There’s an energy that we have in camp. This fight is very significant because it is the Battle of Los Angeles and being able to fight Leo Santa Cruz, I want to come out and I needs to get the W and prove to everybody that I am the best of the area and one of the top featherweights in the world.
Q
Who are you representing here in Los Angeles? Hawaiian Gardens, Downey? Who are you fighting for?
A. Mares
I am representing myself – I’m representing myself, my fans, and everybody that’s behind me.
Q
With Leo being undefeated, do you feel that Leo feels kind of invincible that he’s never went ahead and suffered a defeat before?
A. Mares
Right now Leo is feeling very good about himself. He will commit errors and I will make him pay. I’m going to show Leo Santa Cruz on August 29th that I am the superior fighter at STAPLES Center.
Q
How are you going to respond if the crowd is not truly in his favor?
A. Mares
I can’t worry about that. I have to go ahead and perform at the high level, and whatever I need to do, I’m going to go out there and fight very hard and get the crowd on my side coming up on August 29th.
A. Mares
Okay. My last comment is I’m ready for August 29, I can’t wait. Leo Santa Cruz, I know you’re listening, I’m ready. You guys have a good one.
R. Flores
All right, thank you very much. Right now I’m going to introduce the undefeated two-division world champion with a record of 30-0-1, 17 KOs. Fighting out of Los Angeles, California, please welcome Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz.
Leo Santa Cruz
Thank you for being here on this call. I just want to say that I’m excited; I’m very happy and motivated for this fight. This is the biggest fight in my career and I can’t wait.
Q
Can you explain why this is the biggest fight of your career?
Leo Santa Cruz
It’s the first time I’m the main event, and then also because it’s the first time I’m going to fight a fighter that’s on a big level, like the fans said, they wanted me to fight a fighter that is at the elite level fighter, and I think Mares right now is the hardest opponent I ever faced. So that plus me being the main event is like the same excitement as I’m fighting for a world title.
Q
Are you ready to throw down with him in a fight that could be a fight of the year.
L. Santa Cruz
Yes, of course, In my mind this is a fight of the year because we’re both Mexican street fighters, we come forward, trying to please the fans and I think this is going to be a great fight. I think he’s a great fighter and everything, and I see this fight like almost a 50/50, it could go either way because he’s a good fighter, I’m a good fighter, so I think it’s going to be great.
Q
Who do you think is the favorite in this fight? And why?
L. Santa Cruz
Well, at the beginning I think Mares was the favorite, but now I think as I’ve been hearing that I’m the favorite now. But, like many of the fans, they can’t choose either side because they know this fight is really hard for both of us, that it’s a really even fight. So I think we have to leave it to August 29th to see who’s the better fighter that day.
Q
Have you thought about the possibility that this fight might lead to a rematch or even trilogy?
L. Santa Cruz
Yes, of course. If Mares loses, I know he’s going to want a rematch. If I lose, I’m going to want a rematch. So, none of us are going to be comfortable after the fight.
Q
Abner Mares told us that it’s personal because you laughed in his faced, can you elaborate on this?
L. Santa Cruz
I didn’t laugh in his face and it’s not a personal fight for me, just professional, just a great fight, and it’s a 50/50 fight for me.
Q
Is there any extra motivation heading into this matchup against Abner Mares.
L. Santa Cruz
I’m fighting for going ahead and being a world champion, fighting for Los Angeles. That alone is motivation all to itself and as much as I need for this matchup with Abner Mares.
Q
What does a win over Abner Mares do for Leo Santa Cruz?
L. Santa Cruz
As I go ahead and move up to 126, I want to prove to everyone that I am worthy and am in the upper echelon in the featherweight division. I want to go after world title at 126, and I know I could do so by fighting and doing very well and winning against Abner Mares.
Q
Was it always in your mind that this fight would happen?
L. Santa Cruz
I started my career and I saw Mares in my weight class and he has been really good throughout his career. I think I had like four, five fights at the time and I knew that maybe in the future we’re going to have to face each other and I never doubted that we were going to face each other. So, yes, it was always in my mind that sooner or later we’re going to face each other.
Q
Do you think this is like the perfect opportunity for you to enter the division?
L. Santa Cruz
Yes, of course. I think it’s the best fight because Abner Mares is a natural featherweight right now and he’s a great fighter and can do everything. So, getting a victory against him is going to put me on the big level, it’s going to put me to the next level and show that I’m ready for the rest of the fighters in the division.
Q
Was there any point in your career where you were kind of frustrated, that you wanted more of your career?
L. Santa Cruz
Yes. I wanted to listen to the fans and the criticism, and then I wished I could choose and say I’m going to fight this fighter, and just go on ahead and fight him. But I had to leave it to my team. They’re here to protect me. They know what’s right. So that’s why I listen to them and they know what’s best. But sooner or later, I’m going to fight the fight that the fans want.
Q
Who do you think the fans are going to be for? And do you think they’re going to look for a good fight and end up cheering for either one of you, depending upon how the fight is going, or is there loyalty there depending upon your neighborhood? Tell us a little bit about that.
L. Santa Cruz
I think the fans are going to be like 50/50, half for him, half for me. I think it’s going to be evenly divided. I think the fans are going to be divided between both of us. Half of them are going to be cheering for him, half for me.
But yes whoever I think puts on the better fight the fans are going to root for at the end. It’s really hard to get up in the ring and put on the great fights the fans will love. I want to give the fans that.
Q
After Abner suffered the loss to Johnny Gonzalez, could Leo tell that Abner was more immobile and didn’t want to engage as much?
L. Santa Cruz
After that loss it certainly seemed that way, but I understand that come August 29th, that all that’s going to go out the window and Abner is going to come forward and wants to stand and trade and I will be willing to oblige by that, and then we will go from there, and go toe-to-toe on August 29th.
Q
Abner has stated about you, one of his detriments is the fact that you are undefeated and that you don’t know how to lose but doesn’t fully understand what it’s like to face defeat, what do you think of that?
Q
I’m very calm, relaxed and focused. I don’t think that’s a detriment and I’m going to put all that talk behind me. I do not engage whatsoever in trash talk, so to speak, and I just go out there and do my work, very calm, cool and collected.
Q
You’ve seen Abner fight many times before obviously and you know his style pretty well from that. What do you think is the most important thing that you can do in there to make sure you leave victorious?
L. Santa Cruz
Yes, it’s been like six, seven years since we fought in sparring. He has changed a lot. I have changed a lot too. We’re going to come out in the first round and try to use our game plan. If it’s not working, we’re going to change the plan to what we’re working on in the gym with my dad. But we have the plan to fight and to get the victory. We’re going to go out there, do what we’re doing in the gym. And once we’re up there, we’re going to know how to fight and get the victory.
Q
Are you training to get a stoppage?
L. Santa Cruz
Yes.  The sooner the fight ends, the better for one of us. Less punishment, less hits. But if the stoppage didn’t come, we’d just be happy with the victory. We’re going to go out there, beat Mares any way we can get the win, that’s what’s more important.
K. Swanson
Leo, I have one more question. How is your dad holding up? This is such a big fight for you and he’s so emotional. We’ve seen it time and time again; he’s your father and your trainer. How is he holding up?
L. Santa Cruz
No, he’s really excited. He’s just calm. He tells me to not worry about nothing other than this fight. It’s very important, but with all the hard work and everything we’ve been doing in the gym, it’s going to come out good. And if it doesn’t, they’re still going to be there for me no matter what happens in the fight. Sometimes you lose, sometimes you win, but we have to be concentrated and focused on what we want and know that we’re going to go out there and put on a great show.
L. Santa Cruz
I want to thank all the fans coming out to the fight, August 29, that we’re both great Mexican warriors and we’re going to go and give the fans a great show, that we’ve been training really hard, and none of us want to lose. So that when that happens, we both give a great show and an explosive war. Don’t miss it.
R. Flores
Just want to let everyone know, we appreciate the media covering Santa Cruz and Mares. Don’t miss it, August 29th. We are about two weeks away. I cannot wait to get to Los Angeles. The entire West Coast is going to be buzzing. The country is going to be buzzing, because you get this fight on free television, PBC Boxing free for all. It is going to be 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
Also for the media out there, don’t forget about on Tuesday, August 18th, Abner Mares is going to have his doors open to the media, Del Mares Gym, 6400 Garfield Avenue in the Bell Gardens, California. Media to arrive there at 10:30 a.m. Abner starts his workout at 11 o’clock.
We really appreciate. We cannot wait. Abner Mares-Leo Santa Cruz. It’s going to be a historic night for boxing in Los Angeles. The Staples Center is going to be rocking and I cannot wait. PBC on ESPN, coming up August 29th, 10 o’clock Eastern, 7:00 Pacific.
Make sure to get your tickets now. They’re selling fast. They start at $25, (AXS.com) and the Staples Center box office zone.
Can’t wait for August 29th, and we will see you guys on fight week in Los Angeles.
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.staplescenter.com andwww.TGBPromotions.com. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @LeoSantaCruz2 @AbnerMares, @ESPNBoxing, @STAPLESCenter, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/STAPLESCenter andwww.facebook.com/ESPN. Follow the conversation using #PBConESPN.
boxing, ESPN Boxing, PBC on ESPN, Premier Boxing Champions

LEO SANTA CRUZ MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Santa Cruz Takes On Abner Mares In Battle Of Los Angeles’ Best On
Premier Boxing Champions on ESPN (10 P.M. ET/7 P.M. PT)
Saturday, Aug. 29 From STAPLES Center In Los Angeles
 
Click HERE For Photos From Suzanne Teresa/Premier Boxing Champions
 
LOS ANGELES (August 11, 2015) – Undefeated two-division world champion Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz held a media workout Tuesday at the Who’s Next Boxing Academy in La Puente, Calif., before his showdown with Abner Mares on Premier Boxing Champions on ESPN on Saturday, August 29 airing live from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.
Santa Cruz worked out for media, conducted interviews and was even presented with a birthday cake in celebration of his 27th birthday, which was Monday. The band Las Voces Del Rancho was on hand to sing him “Happy Birthday.”
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $25, $50, $75, $150 and $300, not including applicable fees and service charges, and are on sale at AXS.com or by phone at 888-929-7849 or at STAPLES Center.
Here is what Santa Cruz and his father had to say at the workout today:
LEO SANTA CRUZ
“We’re going to show everyone that we are on top when we’re in that ring. This has been a great promotion and we have hope that it’s going to be a big fight.
“I have been in other big fights and I’m doing everything to prepare for my audience and fans. They respect our team and they are the reason why we are doing this fight. I’m going to continue to fight for my fans and I’m going to do it until I’m the best in the sport.
“I’m 100 percent with my strength and conditioning. We’re ready to go 12 rounds if it takes that long.
“I’m very determined to win this fight. It’s the biggest fight of my career. I have a lot to lose I have a lot to prove. I want to prove to all of the fans that I deserve to be on this level. A win against Mares will put me on the level to get more big fights.
“I wanted this fight three years ago and they said I wasn’t on Mares’ level. I said I was going to work hard to get on that level so one day we can make it happen and here we are.
“This is the toughest fighter I’ve faced. A fight against him will be the biggest of my career. Even bigger than my first title. Mares has a bigger name, everything is bigger.
“With two Mexicans fighting, it’s always a war. There have been a lot of great battles like that in the past and I think this will be too. We could end up with a trilogy of fights.
“We both have our fan base in Los Angeles and this fight will determine who is the king and who gets all the fans.
“My dad has always been there since the beginning. I’ve always been comfortable with him. He’ll scream at me and tell it like it is.
“I think Abner moves more since his loss to Jhonny Gonzalez. He knows this fight is very important for him. There’s a lot to lose for him too. I think he’s going to bring everything this fight. That makes it an even better fight for the fans.”
JOSE SANTA CRUZ, Santa Cruz’s Father & Trainer
“Leo is ready in his diet and in the way he trains. He won’t play games. He listens to what I say because he is a good boxer and he will do whatever is needed because he knows Abner is strong.
“This is a huge party for Los Angeles. They are both from LA and everything about this fight is Los Angeles.
“He’s going to be on top of things the minute he needs to be. But he’s going to fight with intelligence. It’s a big fight, my son and Abner are very popular and I’m sure it’s going to be a great fight.”
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.staplescenter.comand www.TGBPromotions.com. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @LeoSantaCruz2 @AbnerMares, @ESPNBoxing, @STAPLESCenter, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/STAPLESCenter andwww.facebook.com/ESPN. Follow the conversation using #PBConESPN.
boxing, ESPN Boxing, PBC on ESPN, Premier Boxing Champions

ADDITIONAL TICKETS RELEASED AT STAPLES CENTER FOR LEO SANTA CRUZ VS. ABNER MARES TO MEET MASSIVE DEMAND FOR HIGHLY ANTICIPATED SHOWDOWN TAKING PLACE SATURDAY, AUGUST 29 IN LOS ANGELES

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 Additional Tickets Go On Sale Today at 4:00 p.m. PT

 

LOS ANGELES (August 4, 2015) – Due to unprecedented ticket demand, additional sections will be opened up at STAPLES Center for the highly anticipated featherweight clash between Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz (30-0-1, 17 KOs) and Abner Mares(29-1-1, 15 KOs) taking place on Premier Boxing Champions on ESPN Saturday, August 29 in Los Angeles.

 

Additional seats will be available today at 4:00 p.m. PT. Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $25, $50, $75, $150 and $300, not including applicable fees and service charges, and are on sale at AXS.com or by phone at 888-929-7849 or at STAPLES Center.

The 12-round battle will pit the undefeated two-division world champion Santa Cruz against the former three-division world champion Mares. Both fighters currently live and train out of Los Angeles and will be looking to take home local bragging rights on August 29.

 

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.staplescenter.comand www.TGBPromotions.com. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @LeoSantaCruz2 @AbnerMares, @ESPNBoxing, @STAPLESCenter, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/STAPLESCenter andwww.facebook.com/ESPN. Follow the conversation using #PBConESPN.
boxing, ESPN Boxing, Premier Boxing Champions

Frank De Alba off of tonight’s ESPN3.com fight with Omar Douglas

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Brooklyn, NY (August 1, 2015)–Due to a last minute, non-career threatening medical issue, Jr. Lightweight Frank De Alba will not be able to compete in Tonight’s fight with Omar Douglas at Barclays Center.  The bout was scheduled to be streamed on ESPN3.com.
More details on De Alba will announced shortly.