by Edward Chaykovsky
The Vice President of Golden Boy Promotions, Eric Gomez, came out in defense of Saturday's Showtime Pay-Per-View co-feature, which is going to showcase Leo Santa Cruz (27-0-1, 15KOs) making a defense of his WBC super bantamweight title against Manuel Roman (17-2, 6KOs). The fight will be the final appetizer before Floyd Mayweather-Marcos Maidana rematch at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.
Roman has no significant wins on his record and his only claim to fame is being the former sparring partner of Santa Cruz. Most fans, and writers, view the fight as a mismatch. But Gomez feels strongly that Roman deserves the opportunity.
There is also another bout receiving heat, which features Alfredo Angulo taking on James De La Rosa at a catch-weight of 162-pounds. De La Rosa is viewed as a massive underdog in the match.
"We're very excited about this undercard. It's customary for Golden Boy and Floyd Mayweather to put on exciting championship matchups with terrific fighters. We're very proud of this undercard," Gomez said.
"Alfredo Angulo is one of the most popular fighters in the sport. I would say that he might have the best fans in all of boxing. They always support him no matter what, and I'm sure they'll be out in full force Saturday night.
"A lot of people don't get the opportunity to fight for a world title. They're just waiting for that one opportunity. That's what happened for Manuel Roman, who is finally getting a chance for a world title. He's put in all the hard work and he's looking to take full advantage.
