Abner Mares vs Fernando Montiel added to Thurman-Porter card

The March 12 PBC on CBS card has added another fight, as Abner Mares will face Fernando Montiel in a 10-round featherweight co-feature beneath the Keith Thurman-Shawn Porter main event.

Mares (29-2-1, 15 KO) is coming off of a spirited loss to WBA featherweight titleholder Leo Santa Cruz last August, while Montiel (54-5-2, 39 KO) gave IBF titleholder Lee Selby a tougher fight than most anticipated in October, though he did also lose.

Mares, 30, has held titles at 118, 122, and 126 pounds, while Montiel, 36, is a former titleholder at 112, 115, and 118. Mares will be working with new trainer Robert Garcia for the fight.

"I'm ready to get back in the ring and have the boxing world see the monster that the Mares and Robert Garcia partnership is creating," said Mares. "I'm a tough fighter. I've made some adjustments and I will show my warrior spirit and skill on March 12. It's time to go to work."

"I have been wanting to fight Abner Mares for many years," said Montiel. "They say that styles make fights and Abner Mares' style is tailor made for me. My last fight was a close decision against one of the best featherweights in the world in Lee Selby. I need to make every fight count and on March 12 Abner Mares will be my next step to another world title!"

Promoter Lou DiBella added, ""Abner Mares and Fernando Montiel are both proud warriors. Both are coming off tough, competitive fights and both must win to once again realize championship dreams. This will be a throw down, entertaining battle."