David Benavídez and Demetrius Andrade, two unbeaten titans of the super middleweight division, kicked off their big week in Las Vegas, prepping for their showdown this Saturday, November 25. It’s going down at the Michelob ULTRA Arena, Mandalay Bay, and it’s a Premier Boxing Champions event you won’t want to miss, watch it live Showtime PPV.
The media got a sneak peek at their skills, but they weren’t alone. The undercard’s loaded with talent, like WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo and José Benavídez Jr., clashing in a 10-round WBC special event. Plus, Shohjahon Ergashev and IBF champ Subriel Matías are set for a title fight, while Héctor García and Lamont Roach gear up for a super featherweight showdown. Oh, and don’t forget Sergey Lipinets and Michel Rivera in a super lightweight clash, live streaming for those glued to their screens.
Tickets? Grab ’em at AXS.com and be part of the action promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing.
Here’s the lowdown from the fighters:
David Benavídez
“Junior and I, we’ve really pushed the envelope. Since we were kids, headlining a pay-per-view, him in the co-main, me in the main – it’s like a dream come true. We’re just buzzing to be here.
I’m thankful to be in this spot. It’s awesome to entertain fans, especially when they’re chilling with family on a Saturday. It’s going to be a knockout night of boxing.
My drive? It’s fueled by all I’ve been through. My family – my son, wife, and soon-to-arrive baby Khloe – they’ve given me a whole new level of motivation. I’m here to show the world I’m the top dog.
I picked Andrade for a fight because he’s the real deal, the toughest around, next to Canelo and me. I’m on a mission to erase any doubt that I’m the king of the super middleweights.
Canelo? Not sweating him. I’m here to sweep the division, making it the Benavídez era.
Saturday? I’m aiming for a knockout. Giving the fans a thrilling show is my goal. Tough, sure, but I’ve got what it takes to win.
This journey, from dreams to reality, is just unreal. I’ve worked hard for this, and I won’t stop till I’m known as the greatest of my time.”
Demetrius Andrade
“I’m pumped and feeling top-notch. Get ready for an amazing show – it’s my time to shine.
I’m carving out my legacy, making history, and I’m thrilled to be part of it. I’m going to strut my stuff and keep my winning streak. Think of me as the master chef of boxing – I’ve got the skills, the power, the strategy, and the smarts to outclass anyone.
Getting to 168 was a journey, but here I am, in peak condition. At 35, I’m just getting started, and I’m ready to prove I’m among the best.
Saturday night’s going to be a game-changer. When Benavídez can’t keep up with my pace, that’s when I’ll have the upper hand.
For the fans just tuning in, you might be in for a surprise. But those who’ve been following me, they know what I bring to the ring. They’ve seen my potential.”
Jermall Charlo
“I took some time off social media to regroup and improve myself. Now, I’m back and ready to show off the new and improved me.
I’ve missed my fans, and I’m excited to get back in the ring. My opponent? He’s confident, but it’s my job to dismantle that confidence.
José seems to change when the spotlight hits him. It’s like he’s not used to the attention. In private, he’s quiet, but in front of the media, he’s a different person. As for me, I stay true to myself always. I think I’ve got him rattled; he’s unsure about what’s coming his way. He’s got no idea about my physical or mental state. This is going to be more than just a fight; it’s going to be an all-out war.
I’m hungry for action, ready to dominate my opponent both in and out of the ring. In 2024, expect more action, more of Jermall Charlo.
My focus is on giving the fans what they want. I’m here for them, to fight at 160, defend my title, and maybe move up in weight if that’s what they want to see. This isn’t about money for me; it’s about my legacy and showing my supporters the best of me. I’m ready for battle, motivated, and eager to show the world what I’m made of.”
José Benavídez Jr.
“This whole experience is incredible. It’s something we’ve dreamed of since we were kids. Being here, in this massive arena for such a big event, is a testament to our hard work. I’m grateful to have my brother and dad with me.
Training with my brother was fantastic. I didn’t have to drop as much weight, which made a huge difference. At my natural weight, I feel stronger and more prepared. In the ring, it’s all business, brother or not.
I’ve never felt more confident and ready. I’m coming in hungry and focused, ready to prove my worth. I’m not concerned with what Charlo or anyone else thinks; my goal is to demonstrate that I’m the real champion at 160.
I’ve been in this sport since I was six, fighting on major cards. I feel like a veteran, and now at this weight, I feel my strongest. I’m ready to take Charlo down, and I’m confident I can do it. This is my time.”
“I’m really grateful for this chance. It’s a huge stage, and I’ve dedicated six months to training for this fight. I’m not much for talking; I prefer to let my actions in the ring speak for me. This Saturday, I’ll show everyone what I’m capable of.
Yes, Subriel is known for his knockouts, but so am I. It’ll be interesting to see how he handles what I bring to the table. I’m aiming for a quick victory.
I’ve been working towards this moment for a long time, training hard in the U.S. since 2017. It’s been a dream of mine, and I’ve been steadily improving with each training session. A big shoutout to SugarHill and my training team for preparing me for this fight. I believe I have the best corner in boxing, and I can’t wait to demonstrate that on Saturday night.”
Héctor García
“To Roach, I’d say keep dreaming, but be ready for a tough wake-up call on Saturday night. I’m aiming for a knockout.
I’ve learned a lot fighting at 135, especially from sparring with Gervonta Davis. Those lessons will be evident in the ring.
I feel strong at both 130 and 135, but as the world champ at 130, that’s where I belong and excel.
I’m ready to prove I’m the best in the 130 division, showing everyone I’m here to stay and capable of taking on anyone in my path.
I’m incredibly grateful to Bob Santos and my team for their unwavering support and guidance. They’ve been instrumental in my journey as a world champion.
As for what happens in the ring, it’s up to Roach. He decides his fate, but my goal is total domination. While I’m good at 130 and 135, I see myself moving up to 140 in the future.”
Lamont Roach
“This sport is my life. These past four years, since my last title shot, have been filled with relentless work and dedication. I’ve earned my way back to the top spot.
My recent success comes from taking charge and knowing that nothing will be handed to me. I need to claim it. Beating the champ is my goal, and I’m ready to take that belt from Héctor and prove I deserve to be champion.
Fighting on big stages like this never gets old. I thrive under the spotlight and can’t wait to showcase my skills. I’m on the path to becoming a superstar.
I want fans to see me as the best in this division, with aspirations of becoming a unified, maybe even an undisputed world champion.
García is a formidable opponent, but I perform best under pressure. He’s the ideal opponent for me to shine brightly against on Saturday night.
I’m not aiming for this fight to be the highlight of the year, but if it turns out that way, I’m ready to play my part. My plan is to dominate, looking for an early knockout, or whenever the opportunity presents itself. I want to make this a decisive victory.”
Sergey Lipinets
“Being back in Las Vegas is fantastic, and I’m thrilled to be under the lights once more. I’ve been waiting eagerly for this opportunity, and now that it’s here, I’m ready to make the most of it.
This fight is going to be a treat for all boxing fans. It’s set to be an intense battle, especially if my opponent chooses to go toe-to-toe with me – that’s when it’ll get really exciting.
For me, this fight is crucial. It’s a pivotal moment in my career. Despite the challenges, my goal remains unchanged: I want to be a world champion again. I’m confident in my skills and power, and a victory here would skyrocket my career back to the top.
Right now, my sole focus is on this Saturday’s fight. Winning is my only objective. After that, we can consider future opportunities. But my ambition to reclaim the world champion title is stronger than ever.
The break I had was beneficial both mentally and physically. Training with Justin Fortune, one of the best strength and conditioning coaches, has significantly improved my physical abilities. My punching power and balance have improved, setting me up for another run at the title.”
Vito Mielnicki Jr.
“Being part of such major events is truly a blessing. I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue growing as a fighter. I’ve been training hard in Houston with Ronnie Shields, away from my family, for the past three months, and we’re all set to deliver a great performance on Saturday.
Working with Ronnie Shields, a Hall of Fame trainer who I believe is the best in the business, has been an incredible experience. The opportunity to train alongside someone with his expertise and track record is invaluable, especially at my age. Plus, getting to spar with Jermall Charlo throughout the camp has been a fantastic learning experience.
My upcoming fight against Alexis Salazar is a significant step up for me. It’s going to elevate my skills and push me further in my career. I’m eager to show everyone how much I’ve improved both in the gym and as a fighter. My goal is to keep advancing and enhancing my abilities with each fight.
The fans can expect an explosive and thrilling fight. I’m aiming for a dominant performance, so make sure to be there early – you won’t want to miss this!”