On January 27 on HBO, both Tewa Kiram and Mercito Gesta have big opportunities, with Kiram making his U.S. debut against Lucas Matthysse, and Gesta challenging WBC lightweight champion Jorge Linares.
The two fighters and others from the undercard held a media workout on Thursday in Los Angeles.
TEWA KIRAM
”I have a great game plan that I have for next week. I can’t reveal it now, but if I find an opportunity, I’ll take it. Lucas Matthysse is coming from 140 to 147, so I feel good about that. I’ll be the naturally bigger guy in there. I’m very relaxed, even though this is my first fight outside of Thailand. I’m very happy and excited to come to America to fight for a world title. With a win, I’ll come back here very soon and fight again!”
MERCITO “NO MERCY” GESTA
”I’ve grown a lot and learned a lot since 2012, when I first fought for a world title. I learned how to take defeat, and I learned to make the most from my mistakes. Right now it’s a matter of taking all that I learned and putting it into the ring. I’m not concerned with Jorge Linares’ power, but he is fast and we’re taking that into consideration. I’ve been studying and working on applying pressure, but smartly to avoid mistakes. To my all my fans, don’t miss this great fight. I’m going to win that belt for you!”
FERDINAND KEROBYAN
”My opponent’s name is Lucius Johnson, and he’s been a pro for a while now. We’ve done our research, and I’m looking forward to putting a great show for my fans and come out with a great victory. After fighting 7 times in 2017, I’m hoping this year I’ll be fighting for a championship belt. I want to get more experience on the way, and with experience I’ll be a more complete fighter.
ROMERO “RUTHLESS” DUNO
”The win against Christian Gonzalez gave me a lot of opportunities. I was immediately signed and now I’m doing better than ever. I will give a good fight on Jan. 27, and we can show the world to never underestimate me. I’ve prepared well, and I’m ready for the next level and to take on even tougher fights.
TENOCHTITLAN “T-DOG” NAVA
”I’ve been waiting for this fight for some time now. Now only is this a great opportunity to step up, but it’s an opportunity to give a great fight between two young, undefeated fighters. Esparza is young and tough, but I came into camp in great shape and I have a smart game plan to beat him.”