Boxingtalk recently caught up with Chicago’s favorite son, WBC Champion David Diaz recently to get his take on his career, and his upcoming hometown showdown with the legendary Erik Morales on August 4th at the All State Arena in Chicago, Illinois.

Last time we spoke was right before your title fight, so now I would like to ask you, how does it feel to be WBC Lightweight Champion?

Diaz:  It still hasn’t really sunk in yet.  I still have not been able take it all in.

Looking at that fight, you were behind on the scorecards going into that last round, what was going through your mind?

Diaz:  I felt good the whole fight.  I didn’t feel like I was behind and I didn’t feel that I was doing bad or anything.  I was doing good up until I stopped him.

I have interviewed you numerous times, and you conveyed to me that it was always your dream to in your hometown of Chicago, defending or fighting for a world title.  Now you are going to be defending your title against a legend like Erik Morales.  How does that make you feel? 

Diaz:  I am really blessed to be defending this title in Chicago against Morales, making history.  I am just really happy.  I have waited so long and this is something I have always wanted, since the beginning of my career.

You have been fighting at 140 and 135 your entire career, while Morales started his career at 122.  Do you feel your size will play in role in this fight?

Diaz:  I wouldn’t say that.  What will play a role is mostly my style of fighting.  That will play in role in this fight more then anything else.

But you have fought bigger stronger guys, don’t you feel that will help you deal with what Morales brings to the table.

Diaz:  I believe so.  I have been in there with some very tough guys, and I think that will help. 

I know your fight is not until August 4th, but have you been in the gym training preparing for this fight.

Diaz:  I have been in the gym; I have been helping guys spar.  I was working with Jose Hernandez helping him for his recent fight, so that has kept me busy.  Really I have been in the gym almost everyday; staying on schedule.  I am not taking anytime off.  But I plan on starting camp in June.

Some people feel Morales best years are behind, so what sort of fight are you expecting.

Diaz:  I have a feeling he is going to come into this fight very prepared.  I am going to look at his first Manny Paqcuiao fight and I am going to prepare for the very best Erik Morales.  He has something to gain in this fight, so I am expecting his very best.

What do you have to say to all the people who have supported you through the years?

Diaz:  I just want to send them my appreciation.  Thanks for sticking with me, and expect to see a great fight on August 4th.