President Oscar De La Hoya of Golden Boy Promotions and the boxers participating in Saturday’s Showtime televised card participated in the final press conference Thursday at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.
WBC Interim Super Lightweight Champion Lucas Matthysse will defend his title against dangerous Mike “The Silent Assassin” Dallas Jr., in the main event.
Argentinean knockout artist Matthysse (32-2, 30 KOs) boasts a KO percentage of almost 90 percent and is looking to make a statement in the 140-pound division against the determined Dallas Jr. (19-2-1, 8 KOs), of Bakersfield, Calif.
In the co-feature, world-ranked contender Selcuk Aydin (23-1, 17 KOs) and Mexican warrior Jesus Soto Karass (26-8-3, 17 KOs) collide in an important bout between light middleweights. Jermell Charlo (19-0, 9 KOs), of Houston, Texas, risks his unblemished record when he faces Harry Joe Yorgey (25-1-1, 12 KOs), of Bridgeport, Pa., in a 10-round light welterweight special attraction
Below is what De La Hoya and six of the boxers had to say on Thursday:
Oscar De La Hoya, President Golden Boy Promotions
“We have one of, if not the strongest punchers in the 140 pound division in Lucas Matthysse, who is facing Mike Dallas Jr. This is a fight that can take Dallas Jr. over the top. And this is the type of fight that the fans will definitely enjoy because of the styles. Styles make fights. One thing for this year, 2013, is that I made sure with the matchmakers and with everyone involved that we need and we want exciting, exciting fights. And this event Saturday night will be very exciting.
“The co-main event features Selcuk Aydin. Anyone who saw him fight Robert Guerrero knows he gave an incredible performance. He is very talented. And Soto Karrass, what can I say about him? He is a fighter who just keeps on coming, a fighter who’s well prepared and in your face. It is going to be a tremendous fight.’’
Lucas Matthysse:
“I am a man of few words. I am in great shape and I am ready to fight. What else can I say? Bring it on. This is a very important fight for me not only to win but to look good.’’
Mario Arano, Matthysse’s Promoter:
“You will see the best Lucas Matthysse on Saturday. We want to make sure Team Dallas knows we are not overlooking any fighter. Saturday night will be a tough fight. Lucas is focused and he trained hard.’’
Mike Dallas Jr.:
“It is big moments like this when you have to step up. I am ready to go. Everybody dreams be a world champion. It is every boxer’s goal and this is the step before that. I have the desire and ambition. The only thing on my mind is getting a win. I respect this fighter. He is strong and tough but I am ready to prove and show to everybody what I can do.”
Selcuk Aydin:
“I am ready. We had a good training camp. I want to show a good fight on fight night.’’
Ahmet Oner, Aydin’s Promoter:
“I am excited to have Aydin back on SHOWTIME. We are going to win this fight and move onto a bigger fight.’’
