Mexican boxing legend Erik ?El Terrible? Morales and top super lightweight contender Lucas Matthysse held a media conference call today to discuss their upcoming fight for the vacant WBC super lightweight belt formerly held by Timothy Bradley. Morales will be seeking to become the first Mexican fighter to win a world title in four separate weight divisions. The bout will be part of the Mayweather-Ortiz pay-per-view card taking place Sept. 17 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
Erik Morales: People always think they?re going to finish me, end my career, knock me out, and that gives me the hunger, the strength and the motivation to prove them wrong and go in there and win.
Comparing Matthysse to Marcos Maidana: Maidana was very strong, very difficult, everything that they said was true, but I showed I can compete with them all?on paper Lucas Matthysse looks very good. He?s had tough opponents, he?s a very strong, very young fighter, but ask me at the end of the fight.
On fighting on Mexican Independence Weekend: It?s very important, very motivating to be fighting on this date and for the title against a tough, strong rival like Lucas. It?s something I do because I love it. It?s in my heart, and come September 17 the Mexican people know Erik Morales. They know every time I step into that ring I step in 100%. I?m well prepared, I?m trained and I?m willing to give it all. I fight with my heart, dignity and love for the sport. And after the fight I?m ready to celebrate with Mexico.
Lucas Matthysse: It?s a great opportunity and we?re coming to win.
On returning to the USA after two controversial losses: I know I won those fights. People know I won those fights, and when I was offered this opportunity I was very happy to come back to the U.S. and what better way than to fight for a world title?
On Morales, compared to Zab Judah and Devon Alexander: Totally different styles and different fighters. They box and move backwards. Erik Morales boxes, but he moves forwards. He comes to fight.
