IBF super flyweight champion Jerwin Ancajas (33-1-1) and Argentina's Fernando Martinez (13-0) will kick off Saturday's Showtime Championship Boxing telecast in Las Vegas. Here is what the boxers had to say at Thursday's final press conference:
JERWIN ANCAJAS (pictured): “I’m very thankful for this opportunity to realize my dream and fight here in Las Vegas. I’m very happy that Martinez has trained so hard for this fight. Being a champion, I always want to bring a good fight.
“It gives me motivation that he’s an Olympian and that he has lots of experience in the amateurs. I’m excited for this fight. I’m feeling very energetic and I can’t wait to get into the ring.
“If I have the opportunity to get the knockout, I’m going to go for it. If I see an opening or a weakness, I’m ready to take advantage of it.
“When I defend this title, then I want the unification fight next. I’m ready to go wherever I have to in order to get that fight. But I’m definitely not overlooking Martinez. I know that he’s going to do his best and that excites me.”
FERNANDO MARTINEZ: “I have plenty of experience of my own. I’ve fought everywhere at every level. This isn’t my first rodeo. I’m going to take everything I’ve learned to try to become the new champion. That’s what I plan to do.
“My experience is going to show. This is my first fight in Las Vegas, but you will all be witnesses of how my experience in this sport will help me win this title.
“Ancajas and I have similar styles. We’re going to see who’s the best once the bell rings. I want to give the fans a great show and leave it all in the ring for Argentina.”
