CANELO VS. MUNGUIA UNDERCARD FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

LAS VEGAS – May 2, 2024 – Fighters competing on the undercard for the much anticipated Canelo vs. Munguia went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference before Canelo Promotions presents a Cinco de Mayo weekend blockbuster featuring pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez putting his undisputed super middleweight world title on the line against unbeaten all-action former world champion Jaime Munguía headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, May 4 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Featured during the press conference were former world champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios and Argentine power-puncher Fabian “TNT” Maidana, who duel for Barrios’ Interim WBC Welterweight Title in the co-main event, former world champions Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and Jessie Magdaleno, who meet for Figueroa’s Interim WBC Featherweight Title, and WBA Welterweight Champion Eimantas Stanionis and unbeaten two-time Olympian Gabriel Maestre, who battle in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT

The workout also featured fighters competing on PBC on Prime Video action preceding the pay-per-view, including hard-hitting contender Jesus Ramos and Johan Gonzalez, who meet in a 10-round bout, and rising contender Vito Mielnicki Jr. and Ronald Cruz, who battle opening the live stream at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now at AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions, in association with Golden Boy Promotions and Zanfer Boxing Promotions.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

MARIO BARRIOS

“This has been a great camp and I’m excited that Saturday is almost here. Respect to Fabian for taking this fight. I know he’s coming with a lot to prove, but I’m going to do whatever it takes to come out with my hand raised.

“The move here to training in Las Vegas has been great for my career. My team and I have continued to add on to what already got me this far in my career and it’s shown in the ring.

“I know Maidana has come a long way. I have no doubt he’s gonna bring the fight. I’m going in there to represent my Mexican and indigenous roots like I always do. I have no doubt the boxing fans will be happy with what they see.

“I have to go out there on Saturday and not only win, but win in grand fashion. Whether it’s by knockout or by controlling the fight, I’m coming with bad intentions like always.

“The welterweight division is stacked. Stanionis and Maestre are both great fighters who I want to face. But I have to get this win to be in those exciting fights.”

FABIAN MAIDANA

“I’m inviting everyone to witness what’s going to be a great battle between me and Mario Barrios on Saturday night. Tune in, because it’s going to be an awesome fight.

“I’ve come here to show what I’m made of. I’m here to take the belt away from Mario and bring it back to Argentina. It’s going to be a great battle.

“My style will be the same that it’s always been. I’m gonna stay true to who I am and adjust to what Mario does. The bottom line is that I’m walking away with that belt. I don’t know how it ends, but I’m going to win this fight.”

BRANDON FIGUEROA

“I’m very honored to be here. I’m always happy to represent my flag and my roots. I can’t wait for Saturday night. I know that everyone up here can’t wait to let their hands go.

“It feels amazing to fight guys like Jessie who are decorated and accomplished. I’ve always wanted to fight the best and here I am on one of the biggest stages of the year. It’s a great opportunity.

“I want to go out there and keep doing my thing. I love fighting and I love everything about this sport. I can’t wait to go in there and put it all together.

“I’m an action-packed fighter. Stacked cards like this with all-action are great for boxing. I’m a fan-friendly fighter and I love putting on a show. I want to make sure that the fans go home satisfied with this beautiful violence.

“This fight ends with everyone winning. It’s a stacked card with Mexicans vs. Mexicans and me and Jessie are ready to put on a show. I can feel the energy from everyone up here. The Mexican fans are electric and I can’t wait to give them a great show.”

JESSIE MAGDALENO

“I’m very excited for this fight. It’s gonna be a fireworks fight on Saturday night. I’m ready to get the show on the road.

“I know I come to put on a show. I always bring it no matter what. I give the fight fans what they want. I look at this as just being the beginning for me.

“A win on Saturday will be something great. We trained tremendously hard for this fight. We’re ready to get in there. It’s going to be an amazing fight for everyone. This is huge for me.

“The fans are gonna be happy. We both come to bring it. May the best man win. It’s gonna be a great fight.”

EIMANTAS STANIONIS

“It’s been a very long time and I’m very happy to be here fighting in Las Vegas. I’m from a small country and there are very few people who make it to this point from there. I’m very happy that my hard work has earned me this opportunity.

“I just want to be back in the ring. When I hear that bell, I’ll be the happiest man on the planet to be in the ring.

“I’ve been training the whole time I was out of the ring. I’ve stayed disciplined and stayed training all the time. I wanted to be ready as soon as the call came.

“I know he’s coming with everything. This fight is do or die for him, but it’s the same for me. Being on this card is a dream come true and I’m ready to do anything I can to keep my belt.

“I’m not overlooking Maestre, because he’s a tough fighter, but of course I want the winner of Barrios vs. Maidana. I want to be a throwback fighter and take on all challengers.

“I’m coming to bring fireworks. I’m prepared to deliver something special and I can’t wait to see everyone on Saturday.”

GABRIEL MAESTRE

“This is gonna be a war. I can’t wait to show everyone the fireworks that will be on display in the ring. It’s going to be a clash of two great fighters.

“I’m used to being the underdog. I was the underdog in both fights last year and you saw how those worked out.

“I don’t know how the fight will go, but I know it will be a battle. Mexican fans deserve a war, and that’s what we’ll give them. It’s going to be a spectacle to remember.

“We fought in the amateurs and I thought I should have gotten the decision. But now we’ve turned the page and are different fighters in the pros. It’s going to be a great fight no matter what.”

JESUS RAMOS

“I’m just excited to be back and prove that I am at the top of this division. I have a tough opponent, and that will make for a more exciting fight. That’s exactly what we want.

“I’ve learned a lot from my first defeat. It was controversial and that made it hard. But it’s made me hungrier and now I’m back to prove where I belong. It’s gonna show on Saturday night.

“Gonzalez has power, but I have power as well. I can also box and I have faith in those abilities. I’m going to use everything I have. I’m ready to go toe-to-toe and give the fans a great show as well. I’m not here to back down from anybody.

“I will get my hand raised by any and all means necessary.”

JOHAN GONZALEZ

“I’m very thankful to be here and I’m happy that my team got me in this fight. I’m very motivated to make Venezuela proud. You won’t want to miss it.

“To be a champion you have to fight the best, and Ramos is one of the best. I’m relying on the work my team has put in. We just have to stick to our strategy.

“I come ready for anything he brings. If I have to go to war, we’ll go to war. That’s what being a fighter is all about.”

VITO MIELNICKI JR.

“I’m blessed to be in the position I’m in. Tune-in Saturday night, because you don’t want to miss it. Expect a dominant performance and fireworks. I’m going to keep getting better each and every fight.

“I’ve been staying in the gym and staying locked in working with Ronnie Shields in Houston. I get amazing sparring and it’s helped get me to this moment.

“Being a part of these atmospheres over and over again allows me to have fun and absorb the moment. I’ve worked since I was seven-years-old to be in a position like this. Now it’s time to put on a show Saturday night.

“Just tune in and expect fireworks and a dominant performance. I have a great opponent in front of me, but we worked very hard to prepare for Cruz. I’m leaving the ring with my hand raised.”

RONALD CRUZ

“I’m extremely excited to be here. I know I’m facing a great fighter, but this is my time. I’m here to shock the world.

“I’ve trained really hard for the last two years getting ready to fight for the world title. Vito is in my way, and all respect to him, but we’re going to put on a show Saturday night.

“I like a challenge. A lot of fighters are afraid to take losses, but I’m not. We have to stop him on Saturday night. You’re going to see the game plan when you tune in. We’ve structured an entire camp to stop Vito and I’m excited to show what we have planned.”

# # #

ABOUT CANELO VS. MUNGUIA

Canelo vs. Munguia will see Canelo Promotions present a Cinco de Mayo weekend blockbuster featuring pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez putting his undisputed super middleweight world title on the line against unbeaten all-action former world champion Jaime Munguía headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, May 4 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

In the co-main event, former world champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios will defend his Interim WBC Welterweight Title against Argentine power-puncher Fabián “TNT” Maidana, while hard-hitting former world champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa puts his Interim WBC Featherweight Title on the line against former world champion Jessie Magdaleno in pay-per-view action. Kicking off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT is undefeated WBA Welterweight Champion Eimantas Stanionis battling the unbeaten two-time Olympian Gabriel Maestre.

In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to purchase the PPV via DAZN.com. On top of those options, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets, including PPV.com

Tickets for the live event are on sale now at AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions, TGB Promotions, in association with Golden Boy Promotions and Zanfer Boxing Promotions.

For more information visit www.Amazon.com/PBC, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #CaneloMunguia, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions

CANELO VS. MUNGUIA UNDERCARD MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES

LAS VEGAS – May 1, 2024 – Fighters competing on the undercard for the much anticipated Canelo vs. Munguia event showed off their skills at a media workout Wednesday before Canelo Promotions presents a Cinco de Mayo weekend blockbuster featuring pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez putting his undisputed super middleweight world title on the line against unbeaten all-action former world champion Jaime Munguía headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, May 4 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Featured during the workout were former world champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios and Argentine power-puncher Fabian “TNT” Maidana, who duel for Barrios’ Interim WBC Welterweight Title in the co-main event, former world champions Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and Jessie Magdaleno, who meet for Figueroa’s Interim WBC Featherweight Title, and WBA Welterweight Champion Eimantas Stanionis and unbeaten two-time Olympian Gabriel Maestre, who battle in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT

The workout also featured fighters competing on PBC on Prime Video action preceding the pay-per-view, including hard-hitting contender Jesus Ramos, who battles Johan Gonzalez, and rising contender Vito Mielnicki Jr., who duels Ronald Cruz opening the live stream at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now at AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions, in association with Golden Boy Promotions and Zanfer Boxing Promotions.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:

MARIO BARRIOS

“I’m very excited for Saturday. I’m ready to get through fight week and get into the ring. I just can’t wait to fight.

“I always go in there with bad intentions and motivated to show what kind of fighter I am. We worked so hard in the gym and I want to make it worth the effort on Saturday.

“The welterweight division is opening up and I want to be in the big fights. I have a guy in my way on Saturday and I have to take care of him first.

“Whoever comes out of Stanionis vs. Maestre with their hand raised is who I’m gonna want to fight. I want those belts.”

FABIAN MAIDANA

“It is a great honor to represent Argentina. I want to showcase what Latin American fighters can truly do in the ring.

“I consider myself a smart fighter. I’m going to measure my steps, think about what I have to do and be tactical. That’s the kind of fighter I am.

“I’m coming to win this fight for my country of Argentina and leave my name in the history books.”

BRANDON FIGUEROA

“I’m coming to throw punches from all angles, deliver non-stop pressure and give fans an all-action fight. I know he’s coming to do the same. I can’t wait to showcase my skills.

“This is a big fight. I’m excited for this all-Mexican atmosphere. I can’t wait to get in there and give the fans a great show.

“I’m gonna show all my skills. Lefty, righty, boxing, brawling, just anything it takes to get the victory. I have to get the victory and make a statement.”

JESSIE MAGDALENO

“I’m just feeling amazing. I’ve been counting the days. I’m ready to get in there and shock the world.

“A win boosts my career and puts me back to where I’m supposed to be. We’re here to pull off the upset.

“I’ve got some tricks up my sleeve. I’m gonna dance right around him. He better be ready.”

EIMANTAS STANIONIS

“It’s been a very long time and I’m very hungry. I’m just excited to hear the bell and fight my fight.

“It’s going to be an explosion in the middle of the ring. It’s going to be just like a Mexican-style war.”

GABRIEL MAESTRE

“I’m happy and very excited for fight night to come. I want the fight to be tonight. I’m coming to win the title and bring the belt back to Venezuela.

“It’s been a long time since me and Stanionis fought in the amateurs. I’m a more seasoned fighter and more prepared. I’m going to showcase all of that on Saturday night.

“I’m really blessed to be representing all of Latin America in this fight. I can’t wait to win this fight for the whole of Latin America.”

JESUS RAMOS

“It wasn’t easy dealing with my first loss, especially because it was controversial, but it’s part of the game. I just needed to stay strong mentally. I’m excited to bounce back.

“A win will help bring me back to the top of the division. It will put me back with the big fights at 154 pounds. I want to face the best and I want to prove that I’m ready for them.

VITO MIELNICKI JR.

“We had a great training camp down in Houston with Ronnie Shields. I’m really thankful to my team because they sacrifice a lot for me to do what I love every day.

“I’m getting better and better and growing physically, mentally and spiritually. A young fighter like me needs to show growth and that’s what we’re doing.

“It’s always an honor to be on a platform like this. I’m extremely blessed to be in the position I’m in.”

# # #

ABOUT CANELO VS. MUNGUIA

Tickets for the live event are on sale now at AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions, TGB Promotions, in association with Golden Boy Promotions and Zanfer Boxing Promotions.

CANELO VS. MUNGUIA PPV UNDERCARD VIRTUAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

LAS VEGAS – April 11, 2024 – Fighters competing on the pay-per-view undercard for the much anticipated Canelo vs. Munguia event previewed their respective matchups during a virtual press conference Thursday before Canelo Promotions presents a Cinco de Mayo weekend blockbuster featuring pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez putting his undisputed super middleweight world title on the line against unbeaten all-action former world champion Jaime Munguía headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, May 4 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Featured during the virtual presser were former world champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios and Argentine power-puncher Fabian “TNT” Maidana, who duel for Barrios’ Interim WBC Welterweight Title in the co-main event, former world champions Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and Jessie Magdaleno, who meet for Figueroa’s Interim WBC Featherweight Title, and undefeated WBA Welterweight Champion Eimantas Stanionis and unbeaten two-time Olympian Gabriel Maestre, who square off in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now at AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions, TGB Promotions, in association with Golden Boy Promotions and Zanfer Boxing Promotions.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

MARIO BARRIOS

“I’m happy to have this opportunity and I’m excited to be back in the ring again. It’s huge to be on a card like this, especially as the co-main event on Cinco de Mayo weekend. It’s hard to put into words. I’m motivated, focused and getting ready for May 4.

“The welterweight division is stacked. We have a really exciting welterweight title fight opening the card with Stanionis and Maestre, who are both tremendous fighters. I have to make sure that I handle business with Fabian first.

“If everything goes our way, then I want those big unification fights and whoever is the best in the division. I’ve always taken on the best opponents and I’m going to continue to do that.

“I’m excited about what’s in front of me. There’s a lot of things moving around at welterweight and opportunities for new champions. By the end of the year, there will be even more big fights and I plan on being in them.

“I know that Fabian will bring that same focus and drive that his brother Marcos did to these big fights. He’s got a big opportunity and I know he’s not taking this fight lightly. He’s going to come with everything. I’m expecting a hard fight and I’m preparing myself for a brutal 12 rounds.

“Maidana is motivated and hungry, but I’m going to do whatever it takes to make sure that my hand is raised.

“I’m very motivated because it’s about more than just me now. I’m getting ready to have a daughter and it’s a different kind of motivation. I can’t wait to give everyone another great show.”

FABIAN MAIDANA

“I’ve always made my own way. I never see myself as in the shadow of anybody. I’m thankful to have this opportunity on this great card. I’m ready to showcase my skills on May 4.

“I want to show up and show out on May 4. I’m coming to win this fight and bring that belt home to Argentina.

“In order to win big fights, you have to throw a lot of punches. That’s what I’m going to do. I’m going to fight with all my heart and all my grit. I’ll show that the Maidana name is still on top.

“This is a great card and I’m happy to be on it. This is a huge night for boxing and I can’t wait to show how much this means to me when I get in the ring on May 4.

“My brother was a boxing great and I admire him. But I forge my own way, proudly so. I’m going to get into the ring on May 4 and deliver a battle that people will enjoy. That’s how I make my own name.

“I can’t tell you how it’s going to end, but it’s going to be a war and the best man will have his hand raised.

BRANDON FIGUEROA

“I’m very blessed to have this opportunity. I’m just happy to be able to get back in the ring. The fight is here and I’m getting ready and prepared to be at my best.

“I’m just focused on hard work and discipline and doing whatever I need to be at the top of my game. It’s about who wants it more and who’s hungrier. You have to go out there and take it.

“Everyone knows I love to mix it up and get in there and work my inside game. I have to do whatever it takes to win the fight and make it look impressive. I’ll adapt to Jessie and work my way around what he does. It’s gonna be fireworks.

“I’ve been waiting for [WBC Featherweight World Champion] Rey Vargas and I’ve been patient. I took this opportunity because I’ve been itching to fight. I just want to fight the best of the best. If Vargas wants to fight this year, then let’s get it. If not, I’d love to rematch Stephen Fulton. I just want to keep delivering Fight of the Year candidates.

“Jessie is a former world champion for a reason. He’s been in with the best of the best and that’s all I could ask for. He’s someone who I don’t have to look for in the ring and that’s gonna deliver fireworks for the fans.

“It’s going to be a great Mexican atmosphere on May 4 and I know that I’ll have my people back home supporting me.”

JESSIE MAGDALENO

“I feel great right now. I’ve been putting in the work and staying in the gym. This is a great opportunity. I’m thankful to Brandon for accepting the fight. It’s gonna be a great show.

“Of course I have an edge in experience. I’ve been in there with some great fighters. I’ve been boxing for a long time and I know Brandon has put in his work as well. I don’t overlook anybody. I’m just focused on showing the world what I’m truly about.

“Last time I had the blonde hair I became world champion. I’m just ready to get back in there and show everybody what I’m about.

“A win like this is what’s been on my mind. That’s why I’m in the gym focused and working hard. Brandon comes to fight and he puts on a great show, just like I do. We both throw a lot of punches and I know on May 4 that winning this title will be huge for me.

“I know Brandon comes to fight. He’s a come-forward fighter who throws a lot of punches. He comes in great shape every time. We watch tapes and we know he’s a good fighter like I am. We’re focused on showcasing what we’ve got. I have a lot left in my tank and I’m gonna show it on May 4. This is a great matchup for my style.”

EIMANTAS STANIONIS

“It’s been a long time and I’m very happy to be back in the ring. It’s amazing to fight on this big card on Cinco de Mayo weekend. I can’t really describe how great I feel. I know Maestre well and I know there will be fireworks on May 4.

“It was very frustrating to deal with fights that fell out. I just wanted to fight. But I stayed disciplined and trained hard the whole time. I just believed that I would get my opportunity eventually.

“On May 4 I will show that I’m back and put on a great performance like I always do. When you fight on Cinco de Mayo weekend, you have to come with something special.

“I would love a unification fight. It would be great to fight the winner of Barrios vs. Maidana, and then keep collecting belts.

“I train very hard and I’ve never been as hungry to get a win. Every day I get asked when I’m back in the ring, and now I’m ready to have my country behind me. We’re gonna give the fans a great fight.

“I won’t have ring rust because I live the life of an athlete. I’m a very disciplined fighter and I’m in really good shape. I’ve just been waiting for the call and now here we are.”

GABRIEL MAESTRE

“It is a privilege to fight against a champion like Stanionis. This is the fight that I’ve wanted for a long time and now things have come full circle. We had a very tough close fight in the amateurs and I’m looking forward to seeing what he has now.

“I’m very excited for this opportunity to fight on this important card. I’m having a tremendous training camp and I can’t wait to get into the ring.

“Unification is the goal. That’s always been my dream. Winning the title and unifying are next on my list and I’m ready to do it against anyone.

“We didn’t get a chance to fight each other at the Rio Olympics, so I’m truly looking forward to the opportunity to fight him in the pros.

“This is going to be a great battle. I’m not worried about the age difference. Look what my fellow Venezuelan Ismael Barroso did and what I did in my last fight. We’re going to keep pushing forward.”

# # #

THREE ACTION-PACKED TITLE SHOWDOWNS HIGHLIGHT CANELO VS. MUNGUIA PBC PAY-PER-VIEW ON PRIME VIDEO UNDERCARD SATURDAY, MAY 4 FROM T-MOBILE ARENA IN LAS VEGAS

LAS VEGAS – April 9, 2024 – Three high-stakes matchups featuring some of the sport’s most exciting fighters will round out a stacked pay-per-view lineup as Canelo Promotions presents a Cinco de Mayo weekend blockbuster featuring pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez putting his undisputed super middleweight world title on the line against unbeaten all-action former world champion Jaime Munguía headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, May 4 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

In the co-main event, former world champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios will defend his Interim WBC Welterweight Title against Argentine power-puncher Fabián “TNT” Maidana, while hard-hitting former world champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa puts his Interim WBC Featherweight Title on the line against former world champion Jessie Magdaleno in pay-per-view action. Kicking off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT is undefeated WBA Welterweight Champion Eimantas Stanionis battling the unbeaten two-time Olympian Gabriel Maestre.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now at AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions, in association with Golden Boy Promotions and Zanfer Boxing Promotions.

“Saturday, May 4 will deliver a worthy pay-per-view undercard of toe-to-toe clashes leading up to the all-Mexico headlining clash between Canelo Álvarez and Jaime Munguia,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Cinco de Mayo weekend is a crown jewel in the boxing calendar, and with this jam-packed lineup of action fighters entering the ring at T-Mobile Arena, fans are in for non-stop entertainment once again on this PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video.”

**MARIO BARRIOS VS. FABIAN MAIDANA**

The 12-round co-main event will see Mario “El Azteca” Barrios make the first defense of his Interim WBC Welterweight Title against Argentina’s Fabián “TNT” Maidana, the younger brother of legendary action fighter Marcos who will look to add to his family legacy in his first world title opportunity.

A former world champion at 140-pounds, Barrios (28-2, 18 KOs) earned a career-best victory in his last outing and stamped his place as a top 147-pounder by dropping Yordenis Ugas twice last September on his way to a unanimous decision. The 28-year-old hails from San Antonio, Texas and now trains in Las Vegas under the guidance of top trainer Bob Santos. He won a 140-pound world championship in September 2019, using his aggressive style to edge out Batyr Akhmedov and earn a unanimous decision. Barrios lost the super lightweight title in another action packed, highly competitive bout, as he was defeated by three-division and five-time world champion Gervonta Davis in June 2021.

“I’m thrilled to be back in the ring for the co-main event of the biggest Mexican fight in history and during Cinco de Mayo weekend,” said Barrios. “Fabián Maidana is a tough warrior like me, so the fans are definitely in for an exciting fight. Defending my title is priority number one, and I’m going to do it with intelligence and bad intentions. Everyone knows that when I step into the ring, I leave it all in there. This will be no different. On May 4, the fans can expect a Mexico vs. Argentina war.”

The 31-year-old Maidana (22-2, 16 KOs) enters this fight on a four-bout winning streak, including three 2023 triumphs highlighted by a unanimous decision victory over Israel Lopez in November. A native of Margarita, Santa Fe, Argentina, Maidana hopes to follow in the footsteps of his older brother and former two-division champion Marcos. He’s fought professionally since 2014, following up a strong amateur career by winning his first 16 pro fights. He will return to fight stateside for the first time since 2019, after spending much of his early career fighting in the U.S., including a 2018 knockout of former title challenger Andrey Klimov.

“I’m very happy to be fighting on this card against a great champion like Mario Barrios,” said Maidana. “We come to win and give our best to the mecca of boxing, Las Vegas. The world knows my brother beat Floyd Mayweather on Cinco de Mayo, and I plan to do the same against Barrios. I’m fighting for my people in Argentina, and I’m coming to win.”

**BRANDON FIGUEROA VS. JESSIE MAGDALENO**

The pay-per-view lineup will also feature the return of former world champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa as he defends his Interim WBC Featherweight Title in a 12-round bout against the former 122-pound world champion Jessie Magdaleno.

The 27-year-old Figueroa (24-1-1, 18 KOs) most recently picked up his interim title in his last bout, beating former world champion Mark Magsayo via unanimous decision in a Fight of the Year candidate in March 2023. It was his second fight since a 2021 Fight of the Year against Stephen Fulton Jr., which some observers thought ended in controversy after the majority decision loss for Figueroa. A native of Weslaco, Texas, Figueroa’s relentless pressure and youthful enthusiasm helped him become the first person to defeat former division champion Luis Nery in their championship clash prior to the Fulton fight. Figueroa added to his family’s legacy by capturing the WBC 122-pound world title against Nery, joining his brother Omar Figueroa Jr., who previously held the WBC Lightweight World Championship.

“I’ve been staying ready, just patiently waiting for my opportunity, and now I can’t wait to get back in the ring on May 4,” said Figueroa. “Magdaleno is a great fighter and he’s a former world champion for a reason. I know I have to be at my best. I’m just hungry to get back into the ring and keep boxing exciting with my fights and my fighting style.”

A Las Vegas-native, Magdaleno (29-2, 18 KOs) will look to rebound from a decision defeat in his last fight against current featherweight titlist Raymond Ford. Prior to the defeat, Magdaleno had put together four-straight victories since moving up to featherweight in 2019. The 32-year-old became a world champion in 2016 with a dominant unanimous decision victory over future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire, and successfully defended the title with a 2017 knockout of Adeilson Dos Santos. Magdaleno also comes from a boxing family, as his older brother Diego was a longtime contender, while his younger brother Marco also fought professionally.

“This fight is everything for me,” said Magdaleno. “There are people who think I’m an underdog against Figueroa. But I’d remind those people of one thing…I was an underdog when I became world champion for the first time, and I’m ready to do it again. On May 4 you will hear ‘and the new!’”

**EIMANTAS STANIONIS VS. GABRIEL MAESTRE**

A come-forward technician, the undefeated Eimantas Stanionis will make the first defense of his WBA Welterweight Title when he takes on fellow unbeaten Gabriel Maestre in a 12-round showdown that opens up the pay-per-view card.

Representing his native Kaunas, Lithuania, Stanionis (14-0, 9 KOs) has made the most of the promise he showed when turning pro after fighting for his country at the 2016 Olympic games. The 29-year-old captured his interim belt in his most recent outing, defeating the previously unbeaten Radzhab Butaev via a hard-fought decision in April 2022. Stanionis blasted through a slew of veteran welterweights on his way up the ladder, including a knockout of Justin DeLoach and a 12-round unanimous decision over Thomas Dulorme.

“I’m so excited to get back in the ring, I feel like a kid in a candy store who gets to choose any kind of candy he wants,” said Stanionis. “This is especially exciting for me because I am a big fan of Canelo Álvarez. I love watching his fights and as a kid, I dreamed of fighting on Cinco de Mayo in front of all those great Mexican fans. It motivates me even more to give them a great fight. I know that Gabriel Maestre is tough and has power. We fought in the amateurs and I know it’s a great matchup of styles. I’m going to bring the action and so will he. You can definitely expect fireworks on May 4.”

A two-time Olympian for his home country of Venezuela, Maestre (6-0-1, 5 KOs) delivered a dominant display last August as he blasted out the then-unbeaten rising prospect Travon Marshall in round two. His pro career has followed an extensive amateur run that included victories over Brian Castano, Carlos Adames, Alexander Besputin, Oscar Molina and Brian Ceballo. He made his U.S. debut with a controversial decision victory over Mykal Fox in August 2021 before fighting fellow unbeaten Taras Shelestyuk to a draw in March 2022 and defeating former two-division champion Devon Alexander in April 2023.

“I’ve wanted to fight Stanionis for years and get revenge from our amateur match,” said Maestre. “It was a tough close fight and I’m ready to face him again for another war. We are ready for a great fight and to leave the ring with my hand raised. May 4 will be a historic day for me and Venezuela.”

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YORDENIS UGÁS TRAINING CAMP QUOTES

LAS VEGAS (August 6, 2021) – WBA Welterweight World Champion Yordenis Ugás shared his feelings on being “the most avoided fighter in the division” as he previewed his upcoming showdown against Argentina’s Fabian Maidana which serves the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View co-main event on Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Ugás makes his first world title defense leading up to the highly-anticipated main event between eight-division champion Manny Pacquiao and unified welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr. The Olympic bronze medalist from Cuba added his name to the current crop of welterweight world champions when his WBA title was elevated following a victory over Abel Ramos in 2020.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, MP Promotions and Man Down Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through t-mobilearena.com and axs.com.

Here is what Ugas had to say about the welterweight division, training camp in Las Vegas, Maidana and more:

On his upcoming matchup with Fabian Maidana:

“Fabian Maidana is a really good fighter who I have been aware of for a while. It is very obvious to fight fans that I’m the most avoided fighter in the division, so I want to thank Maidana for taking this fight. A lot of the big-name fighters don’t want to give me a chance. I still have a lot to prove and fans will see the desire in me when I step in the ring with Maidana.”

On his recent training camp with coach Ismael Salas:

“Training in Las Vegas with Ismael Salas is something I cherish, because Salas and I are so close. We have great chemistry, and the gym has a family atmosphere. We have a lot of high-level amateurs, Olympians, and really good pros in the gym, and that takes training camp to the next level. I had the perfect sparring for this camp and am ready to fight.”

On defending his WBA world title:

“As everyone knows, I want to defend my WBA world title against any-and-all challengers, but it seems not many of the top fighters are willing to fight me, even though I have a world title. I take pride in being a world champion, and tremendous respect for the WBA. I will fight anyone they mandate as my number one contender. I am the boogeyman of the division and have to be a world champion to get fighters to fight me, and even then, I still can’t get the big fights. So, I take a lot of pride in defending my belt.”

On what a win will do for his career:

“A win puts me that much closer to getting the winner of Pacquiao vs. Spence Jr., a rematch with Shawn Porter, a fight with Terence Crawford, or a bout with Keith Thurman. These are the fighters I hope I get to face in the future as I am looking to secure a legacy with my career, and I want to prove that I am the best welterweight in all of boxing.”

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ABOUT PACQUIAO VS. SPENCE JR.
Pacquiao vs. Spence Jr. will see eight-division world champion and Philippine Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao face unified WBC and IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. in the blockbuster FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View main event on Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features WBA Welterweight World Champion Yordenis Ugás squaring off against Argentina’s Fabián “TNT” Maidana in the co-main event, while former world champions and all-action brawlers Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero and “Vicious” Víctor Ortiz will meet in a 10-round welterweight duel. Kicking off the pay-per-view at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT, unbeaten featherweight contender Mark Magsayo battles former world champion Julio Ceja in a 10-round attraction.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

THREE EXCITING SHOWDOWNS ADDED TO PACQUIAO VS. SPENCE FOX SPORTS PBC PAY-PER-VIEW LINEUP!

LAS VEGAS (August 3, 2021) – Three exciting matchups have been added to the stacked FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View undercard headlined by eight-division world champion and Philippine Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao facing unified WBC and IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. on Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

WBA Welterweight World Champion Yordenis Ugás will square off against Argentina’s Fabián “TNT” Maidana in the co-main event, while former world champions and all-action brawlers Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero and “Vicious” Víctor Ortiz will meet in a 10-round welterweight duel. Kicking off the pay-per-view at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT, unbeaten featherweight contender Mark Magsayo battles former world champion Julio Ceja in a 10-round attraction.

“This is a fantastic pay-per-view undercard that is worthy of the highly-anticipated main event between Manny Pacquiao and Errol Spence Jr.,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Yordenis Ugás has established himself as an elite fighter in the star-studded welterweight division, and he will have to make sure he comes at his best for the always tough Argentine, Fabián Maidana. Robert Guerrero vs. Víctor Ortiz is a real treat for boxing fans as two of the sport’s most exciting veterans will battle looking to prove themselves ready for one more run at the world title. And in the opening bout, the extremely promising featherweight contender Mark Magsayo of the Philippines will be up against his stiffest test to date in the former champion Julio Ceja.”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, MP Promotions and Man Down Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through t-mobilearena.com and axs.com.

The 35-year-old Ugás (26-4, 12 KOs) has established himself as an elite welterweight since returning from a layoff in 2016, and was elevated to world champion in January after winning a WBA belt by defeating Abel Ramos last September. Ugás, who is from Santiago, Cuba and now lives in Miami, Florida, was on an eight-fight winning streak before losing a narrow split-decision to Shawn Porter in a world title fight in March 2019. The Olympic bronze medalist trains in Las Vegas and owns victories over then undefeated fighters Jamal James, Omar Figueroa Jr. and Bryant Perrella, plus veteran contenders Thomas Dulorme and Ray Robinson.

“Everyone knows I’m a warrior and will fight anyone on any given day, so when they presented me with this fight against Fabián Maidana, I accepted with no hesitation,” said Ugás. “I’ll be defending my WBA title and the world will see why I am must-see T.V. This will be one of the best FOX Sports PBC pay-per-view events in recent history with some of the biggest names in boxing, all fighters who are known for leaving it all in the ring. I know one thing for sure, I’ll be letting my hands fly with bad intentions on August 21. I also want to dedicate this fight to all the brave men, women and children who are fighting for their freedom in Cuba. Patria y Vida!”

Born in Santa Fe, Argentina, Maidana (18-1, 13 KOs) will look to follow in the footsteps of his older brother, former two division champion Marcos Maidana, and become the latest Argentine world champion on August 21. The 29-year-old was unbeaten in his first 16 pro fights, capping off that run with a knockout of Andrey Klimov in July 2018. Since dropping a January 2019 decision to Jaider Parra, Maidana has bounced back with a knockout of Ramses Agaton in September 2019 and a 10-round decision victory over Carlos Cordoba in April of this year.

“This is the opportunity I’ve been waiting for all my life,” said Maidana. “I’m thrilled to be part of such a huge fight card. I’m a man of few words, so all I can tell you is that Ugas is a great fighter but you guys will see the ‘TNT’ I have in each hand exploding on Ugas’ face on August 21.”

Guerrero (36-6-1, 20 KOs) is a three-time world champion who has won world titles at featherweight and super featherweight, and has fought a stacked lineup of elite fighters, including Floyd Mayweather, during a superb career. The Gilroy, California native returned from a 2017 defeat to Omar Figueroa Jr. to win his last three contests. After stopping Adam Mates in December 2018 and Hevinson Herrera in March 2019, Guerrero most recently won a unanimous decision over Gerald Thomas in September 2019.

“It’s great to be back in the ring, especially on a big card like Pacquiao vs. Spence,” said Guerrero. “It was an honor to kick off the first PBC fight on network television and here I am once again, ready to put on a spectacular show for the fans. Víctor Ortiz and I were always on a collision course to fight, and now it’s finally happening. One thing I know for sure, we are going to throw blows and the fans are going to see an all-out war. My time out of the ring has only fueled my desire to give the fans a great fight. Everyone should order this pay-per-view and get their popcorn ready, because it’s going to be fireworks from top to bottom.”

Ortiz (32-6-3, 25 KOs), a former 147-pound champion, will return to the ring for the first time since a February 2018 draw against two-division champion Devon Alexander. The 34-year-old native of Garden City, Kansas, who now lives in Ventura, California, has faced some of the top names in the 147-pound division during his career. Ortiz won the welterweight title with a unanimous decision victory over Andre Berto in April 2011, before losing the title to Floyd Mayweather.

“I am thrilled to be back in the ring on this Pacquiao vs. Spence Jr. pay-per-view undercard August 21,” said Ortiz. “Robert Guerrero is a legend who I’ve always admired. I look forward to competing against him and giving fans the toe-to-toe battle they’re expecting. I’ve had a great camp and I’m so excited to be part of this enormous event. Thank you to everyone who has supported me, I’m ready to make history again!”

The Filipino sensation Magsayo (22-0, 15 KOs) fights out of Pasig City, Metro Manila and most recently knocked out Pablo Cruz in four rounds in April 2021, following his U.S. televised debut in October 2020 that saw him defeat Rigoberto Hermosillo on FS1. The 26-year-old fights in the U.S. for the fifth time overall on August 21 and against his toughest competition to date in the former champion Ceja. Magsayo owns 12-round decision victories over Shoto Hayashi and Jose Robles Olvera, and a sixth-round stoppage of former title challenger Chris Avalos.

“This is going to be a very good matchup against a world class fighter in Ceja,” said Magsayo. “I have been waiting for a chance like this and I am thankful to my whole team for this opportunity. It’s a dream come true to be on the undercard of my number one idol, Senator Manny Pacquiao. On August 21, I’m going to show people what I can do. This is going to be a classic Philippines vs. Mexico war.”

A former super bantamweight champion, Ceja (32-4-1, 28 KOs) will move up to featherweight as he seeks an opportunity to capture a championship in a second division. Ceja’s 2019 saw him engage in two action-packed battles, dropping a June contest to former champion Guillermo Rigondeaux and most recently fighting unbeaten super bantamweight champion Brandon Figueroa to a draw in November. The 28-year-old captured his 122-pound title with a stoppage of Hugo Ruiz in 2015, and has also challenged for a bantamweight title throughout his career.

“I’m back and I’m more than ready to return to the ring,” said Ceja. “A Mexican vs. a Filipino is always guaranteed to be an exciting bout. I have even more motivation than ever being on a card headlined by Manny Pacquiao vs. Errol Spence Jr.. This fight is going to get me back into contending for a championship where I belong.”