a492623f-af54-4817-b036-3a2ab9857cac

PBC ON NBC & NBCSN FIGHTERS MEDIA WORKOUT
QUOTES & PHOTOS

 

SAN ANTONIO (December 9, 2015) –Fighters competing on Saturday’s Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on NBC and NBCSN cards hosted a media workout before they enter the ring on December 12 in San Antonio at the newly renovated AT&T Center.

Omar “Panterita” Figueroa, Antonio DeMarco, Dominic “Trouble” Breazeale, Chris “Nightmare” Arreola, “Vicious” Victor Ortiz, Mario Barrios and Brandon Figueroa were all on hand to workout and speak to the media at Jesse James’s Leija’s Champion Fit Gym.

Figueroa and DeMarco square off in the evening’s main event on NBC while Breazeale and Arreola will compete in separate heavyweight bouts. Ortiz, Barrios and Figueroa are slated to appear on the NBCSN portion of the telecast.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Leija Battah Promotions, are priced at $220, $112, $85, $58 and $31, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.attcenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased by [email protected] or calling (210) 979-3302.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:

OMAR FIGUEROA

“Training camp has been phenomenal. I don’t think it could have gone any better. Considering everything I’ve been through this year, it’s such a breath of fresh air to be able to actually train and train to my fullest.

“I think I’m definitely getting better. We never stop improving and if we do, that’s when our careers end. We always try to learn and see what we can do better and where we can progress. It’s a journey that we’re not even halfway through.

“I don’t think I had the best performance against Ricky Burns in May. Considering I had a fractured hand through camp, I couldn’t really train in camp. I beat a former world champion and I did it without training as much as I’d like.

“To me, a fight is a fight. I enjoy fighting. I love being in the ring. I’m excited for it. I can’t wait. I just want to perform and see how I feel.

“I think Antonio DeMarco is a perfect fit for my style. He’s really tough but he has flaws. He leaves the body open and that’s something I think we can exploit. If all goes to plan, we’ll come out victorious.”

ANTONIO DEMARCO

“I’m coming back for the love of the sport. I want to show everybody that has wrote me off, that I’m still here and dangerous. They’re going to eat their words Sunday morning.

“I had previously retired due to personal reasons, but boxing is such a big part of my life. It brought me out of the streets and given my family a good life. I’ve been able to help my sister who has battled cancer but is now healthy. I couldn’t leave a sport that has helped so many people.

“I’m back with my old trainer, who has helped me reach the best moments of my career. Romulo Quirarte and I are working hard to get back to that level.

“I have a lot of respect for Omar. He’s undefeated and he’s done some really good things in this sport. It’s a hard fight, but it’s a hard fight for both of us. It’s not going to be easy for Omar.

“I want the fans to see a great fight. It’s going to be a war. Two Mexicans, with Mexican blood is always a great fight. I’ve trained for a war and I’ll show everyone that I’m ready when I step into that ring.”

DOMINIC BREAZEALE

“Training camp went great. We had a good nine or 10 weeks of camp with a diverse group of sparring partners. I actually dropped about 10 pounds so I feel strong and healthy.

“It’s huge to finish up the year on NBC at the AT&T Center. I couldn’t ask for much more.

“I’m looking forward to fighting for belts. Line them up. I want to fight top 10, top 5 guys consistently. Let’s get it done.

“I’ve worked really hard on correcting flaws and improving at my craft. As a fighter you that’s what you want to do. I always ask to be tested and that’s what I’m looking forward to.”

CHRIS ARREOLA

“I know I have a tough test in front of me. My opponent has a lot of amateur experience and he’s been a good pro. I have to make this one count. You never know when it’s going to be your last chance.

“I looked bad in my last two fights and you’re only as good as your last fight. I think my opponent sees me as a fighter on his way down and that fires me up. He’s going to wish he never fought me.

“I’ve always thought of myself as an elite fighter. My main concern is Travis Kauffman. I have to beat him convincingly. I need to beat him to the point where everyone wants me to fight for a title. I want to earn my title shot.

“This is the beginning to a title run. I want to cement myself as a top heavyweight in the world. I’m a heavyweight to be reckoned with and I’m going to prove that to everyone. I need this fight for my career.”

VICTOR ORTIZ

“I’ve had my ups and my downs, but I just want to out there and entertain the fans again. I don’t think fans have ever been disappointed in how much action there is when I fight.

“My prime is still here. I’m going to take full advantage of it. The Hollywood scene is cool, it doesn’t hurt as bad, but I prefer being a world champion. I want to get back to that level.

“I’ve been pushing myself the whole camp. I’m just here to put in the work. We’re ready to go put on a show. I know my opponent is going to come hungry and I’m ready.

“I’ve made big changes to my career and I think it’ll be for the better. I hope everyone tunes in. I’m ready to go to war.”

MARIO BARRIOS

“Finishing up the year with a fight like this in my hometown, it’s the best thing I could ask for. I’m excited to be back home fighting in front of family and friends.

“I’ve improved greatly as a fighter this year. I’ve learned a lot about how to maintain composure in the ring. These are things that I’ve been able to gain with experience. I want to stay active and keep getting better.

“Training camp has been great. We went out to Houston for a week of our training to work with Miguel Flores and came back last week to finish up in San Antonio. I feel strong and ready to put on a great show Saturday.

BRANDON FIGUEROA

“I feel really good. My team and I have been doing things rights and I’m ready to get in the ring December 12.

“My first fight was also on a big show with my brother headlining. I’m not saying I’m used to it. But I’m not really an emotional person so I won’t get fazed by the stage.

“I’m happy to be part of this show. There are so many great fighters and it’s a blessing to be part of this event.

“My brother and I both like to brawl and give fans a show, but I’d say I’m a more technical fighter. I like to keep my distance. When it comes down to throwing punches and trading, that’s what we like to do.

“My opponent is taller than my past opponents and he has some amateur experience. I’m going to try to box him, stay on the outside and hurt him with body shots.”

PBC ON NBC & NBCSN FINAL
PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

Click HERE For Photos From Suzanne Teresa/Premier Boxing Champions

SAN ANTONIO (December 10, 2015) – As fight night nears, the fighters competing on Saturday’s Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on NBC and NBCSN cards held a final press conference Thursday in San Antonio before their respective showdowns at the AT&T Center.

The main event pits undefeated star Omar “Panterita” Figueroa takes on former world champion Antonio DeMarco. Televised coverage begins at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT with heavyweights Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola and Travis “My Time” Kauffman, who had a heating exchange when they faced-off Thursday.

Also in attendance and participating on the NBCSN portion of the telecast were former world champion “Vicious” Victor Ortiz, San Antonio-prospect Mario Barrios and Omar Figueroa’s brother Brandon Figueroa.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Leija Battah Promotions, are priced at $220, $112, $85, $58 and $31, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.attcenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased by [email protected] or calling (210) 979-3302.

Here is what the participants had to say Thurday:

OMAR FIGUEROA

“My family has always supported me from the beginning and has been with me every step of the way. They’re the reason I’m here.

“I’m excited to get in the ring and see what I can do. I haven’t been healthy enough to reach my full potential and I’m excited to see where I am right now.

“We made it work for the Burns fight and performed to the best of our abilities. I had a fractured hand for all of camp. It did prove to me that I could deal with adversity

“I can’t wait to see what I can do and I cant wait to give them a great show. I love San Antonio and we’re not going to disappoint. It’s going to be a war and I’m coming out victorious.

ANTONIO DEMARCO

“I want to thank the press for getting behind this event and letting the people know that I’m ready to go and give a great performance.

“I want to thank Omar and his team for this fight happening. Mexican blood runs through my veins and when you get two Mexican fighters inside the ring, expect a terrific fight.

“I know Omar has done his part and I’ve done mine. My camp has supported me and are such an instrumental part of what I do. It’s been a great camp and I feel incredible.

“People have asked why I came back? Well you will find out on Saturday night.”

CHRIS ARREOLA

“I’ve made all of my opportunities and earned them. I’ve made every fight worth my while. Nothing was given to me.

“Kauffman and I have sparred many times. For him it’s been a paid vacation. I’ve been lazy sometimes and Kauffman knows that. He didn’t have to really work against me.

“Let’s look at who Kauffman has fought, he’s fought a bunch of nobodies. He’s taken care of those guys, but I wouldn’t even use them for sparring

“I was terrible my last two fights. None of those fights woke me up. I didn’t train hard enough and I blame myself. It showed in my performance.

“The fact that Kauffman wanted to fight me makes sense. He thinks I’m done and that I party too much. After this Saturday, I’m going to party after I beat him down.

“This is not a cakewalk, I trained so hard because I know Kauffman is a great fighter. He is not going to make a name with me. I’m the Grinch, I’m going to steal his Christmas.”

TRAVIS KAUFFMAN

“I want to thank everyone for this opportunity. Chris and I go way back. At least 10 years. We were in camp with Hasim Rahman and we are personal friends, but come Saturday night it’s business, there are no friends.

“Chris has had many opportunities and knocked at the door. But he hasn’t taken advantage of it. This is a huge opportunity and I’m going to take advantage.

“This isn’t an easy test. Chris will not quit. I have to do what no one else has done, and make him quit.

“We’ve sparred 200 plus rounds, but sparring and fighting are two different things. I’m a different fighter then when we sparred.

“There are no friends on Saturday. I’m taking care of business. This is my time. I want everyone to watch me get known in this business.”

VICTOR ORTIZ

“Once again we’re back, finally. I’m feeling good. I’m privileged and honored to share the stage with these champions.

“I’m going to keep my business in the ring. We’re going to have a great time. Watch me go get it on Saturday night.”

MARIO BARRIOS

“I’m very excited to be fighting back home in San Antonio. Fighting for my city in my city has to be the best feeling of my career. I’m so excited to put on a show on Saturday.

“This is a great opportunity in so many ways. I really look forward to ending they year with a bang and celebrating with my family and friends.

BRANDON FIGUEROA

“”My supporters and fans have always supported me. My family has always been there for me. I’m so thankful to have this opportunity to do what I love the most, which is to fight

“I’m excited to be here with so many great fighters. I want to give the San Antonio fans a show.”

JESSE JAMES LEIJA, Texas Boxing Legend

“I want to thank the fans throughout my career who have supported me and continue to support our work promoting fights.

“We want to bring the best fights possible to San Antonio. We’ve done a great job the last few years. You don’t have to go to Las Vegas, just drive to AT&T Center and you get a Las Vegas style show.

“I’ve known a lot of these guys and we’ve formed a brotherhood. I hope everyone is safe on Saturday night and may the best man win.”

MIKE BATTAH, Leija Battah Promotions

“We’ve been working fights like these for almost 4 years and we’re bringing memorable fights to San Antonio. A lot of these fights that we’ve brought are still talked about today.

“You can’t miss Saturday night, it’s a big show and it’s helping San Antonio be the fight hub that it is. Make sure you come and see the great local San Antonio talent that are building their careers up.”

For more information, visit www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.nbcsports.com/boxing, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @LeijaBattahPR, , @OmarFigueroaJr, @NBCSports and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.facebook.com/NBCSports. Highlights available atwww.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions.

 

For more information, visit www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.nbcsports.com/boxing, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @LeijaBattahPR, , @OmarFigueroaJr, @NBCSports and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.facebook.com/NBCSports. Highlights available atwww.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions.

Share

COMMENTS

COMMENTS