Former world champions Yordenis Ugas and Mario “El Azteca” Barrios displayed their abilities and discussed their forthcoming fight for the Interim WBC Welterweight Title during a media session in Las Vegas on Tuesday. They are scheduled to fight as part of the Canelo vs. Charlo SHOWTIME PPV event on Saturday, September 30 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The event will be broadcast LIVE on DAZN, presented by Canelo Promotions and the Premier Boxing Champions.
Ugas and Barrios aim to recapture championship glory in a fight where former WBA Welterweight Champion Ugas will compete against the former 140-pound champion Barrios. Both fighters have respectable trainers guiding them. Ugas is mentored by the great trainer Ismael Salas, while Barrios is trained by the 2022 Ring Magazine Trainer of the Year, Bob Santos.
Tickets for the live event, which is organized by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions, can be bought from AXS.com.
Here’s what Ugas and Barrios shared on Tuesday from DLX Boxing in Las Vegas:
YORDENIS UGAS:
“At the heart of it all, every round holds the same significance as the one before. I always stay focused, aiming to guide each round precisely the way I envision.
“I’m no fortune teller, but my passion lies in fighting against top-contender opponents. I give every round my all and accept whatever outcomes arise.
“Being part of such significant fight events is familiar territory for me. Still, sharing the stage with a star like Canelo is exhilarating. I cherish this honor and promise to deliver a remarkable performance for all viewers.
“Returning to fight in Las Vegas is a joy. My record here stands undefeated at 5-0, and this marks my third fight at T-Mobile Arena. Las Vegas feels like home, and I truly relish these moments in the ring here.
“Overcoming the aftermath of the Errol Spence Jr. fight was both a physical and mental challenge. Carrying the weight of that defeat was hard. However, I believed in bouncing back. Post-surgery, my eye feels better, and I’m raring to go.
“Stepping back into the gym reignited my lifelong passion. By December, I was deep into my training regime and began sparring a few months later.
“My sole focus remains on my upcoming fight. Whatever Crawford decides regarding the WBC belt doesn’t concern me. I’m centered on my journey and will continue to do so.”
MARIO BARRIOS:
“I promise to maintain the vigor I always bring to the ring. Settling into this weight feels right, and I’m more confident than ever.
“Preparation is in full swing, crafting a strategic approach for Ugas. The challenge is substantial, but I live for such important fights. My aim? To constantly challenge and prove my skills in the ring.
“I’ve been stationed in Las Vegas for some time now, staying sharp. Physically and mentally, I’m at my peak, and it feels electrifying.
“Relocating to Las Vegas felt right. I’ve never felt this sharp and focused. The training here is unparalleled and has been extremely advantageous.
“Securing a victory in this fight is paramount for my career. It propels me to the forefront of the division, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the finest welterweights, and brings me a step closer to the most coveted title fights.
“I’m overjoyed to be in Las Vegas alongside Bob Santos. Bob and I share a deep bond, and having him as the chief coach feels right. We’re poised to achieve great milestones in the coming years.”