Juan Manuel Lopez will be defending his WBO super bantamweight title against Gerry Penalosa on Saturday.
Lopez (24-0, 22 KOs) has the hometown advantage as the fight is in his native Puerto Rico. He recently spoke with FOXSports.com to discuss Saturday’s bout, his goals and the 36-year-old Penalosa (54-6-2, 36 KOs), who is 11 years older than him.
FOXSports.com: How does it feel to fight in Puerto Rico?
Lopez (through a translator): I know how important it is to fight in Puerto Rico. … I’m very happy that this one is in Puerto Rico. I know I have to perform real well.
FOXSports.com: Are you feeling extra pressure?
Lopez: (When) I come in, I know the fans will be with me. … I know it will help me in the long run.
FOXSports.com: For those who don’t know your style, how would you describe it?
Lopez: I look at myself as one of those guys that goes in the ring and throws hard punches. But I have boxing skills too. But, if I land my punches, it won’t be a long fight.
FOXSports.com: What are your thoughts on Gerry Penalosa?
Lopez: I know he’s a very experienced fighter. He’s one of those guys that comes to fight. He’s a very dangerous opponent.
FOXSports.com: You’ve never gone 12 rounds. Penalosa has gone 12 a lot. Are you nervous?
Lopez: We always get ready to fight 12 rounds. … That’s what I always train to do.
FOXSports.com: What can fans expect to see?
Lopez: It’s a tough fight for three, four rounds. … I think once we get into it, I see the fight ending in eight, nine rounds.
FOXSports.com: Do you go into fights loooking for knockouts?
Lopez: No. You try to win every round. But, I’m one of those guys, if I hurrt you, I will finish you.
FOXSports.com: Do you feel your size and strength advantage will be a big help against Penalosa?
Lopez: I believe so. I also believe my youth too. (But) I know there are older guys, like (Bernard) Hopkins, who are older who have won titles.
FOXSports.com: What are your plans for 2009?
Lopez: I’m looking forward to a big fight like Israel Vasquez or Rafael Marquez … before I move up to 126.
FOXSports.com: What are your goals for your career?
Lopez: My biggest goal is to be a multidivision champ. I hope to be the first Puerto Rican to be a four-division champion.
