By Salvador Rodriguez
Abner Mares (23-0-1, 13KOs) is looking for bigger names and bigger game at super bantamweight. As BoxingScene.com reported earlier this week, Mares vacated his IBF bantamweight title and faces Eric Morel of Puerto Rico on April 21 in Mexico City. The IBF wanted Mares to fight mandatory Vusi Malinga, but none of the American television networks were interested in picking up the contest.
"Becoming a world champion was very hard, but we've reached a stage where we decide things that are better for us and that's what the team selected, to move up to 122-pounds. We've seen all of the fighters at super bantamweight and I'm excited because there are no bad fighters. Personally, I would like a fight against Nonito Donaire, because they say he's the best, but there are others on the list Fernando Montiel, Victor Terrazas, Jorge Arce, Wilfredo Vazquez, Guillermo Rigondeaux and others like my opponent, Eric Morel," Mares said.
Abner said there is every chance that his upcoming fight in Mexico City will take place in the new arena, which is expected to be inaugurated by Juan Manuel Marquez on the 14th of April.
"It is a new stage in my career, I like challenges and excitement," Mares said.
Meanwhile, Frank Espinoza Jr., manager of Mares, said it is easier to make fights with opponents like Morel, because of the issues that exist between promotional companies Golden Boy and Top Rank, who promote Arce, Donaire, Vazquez and Rigondeaux.
Salvador Rodriguez covers boxing in Mexico for The Record.
