By Jake Donovan

After weeks of going back and forth through the media, Marco Antonio Rubio and Jorge Cota instead took the high road during Thursday’s press conference in Torreon, Mexico. The final presser was held for their crossroads bouts Saturday evening at Auditorio Centenario, where a capacity crowd is expected for Rubio’s first hometown fight in nearly 18 months.

The bout – which headlines on Televisa –Rubio’s first fight back since his failed title bid against Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. earlier this year. Cota also fights for the second time this year.

Both have guaranteed a knockout victory, but made sure to respect the challenge in front of them when addressing the public on Thursday afternoon.

“On paper you can say that my opponent is a rookie, but I don’t believe it,” Rubio (53-6-1, 46KO) states of his unbeaten opponent. “Cota is a young man who pushes hard and we will be aware from the outset to avoid surprises. Working to my advantage is my experience and public support. I want to return the favor with a victory.”

Cota (12-0, 11KO) was equally respectful of the two-time challenger who is nine years his senior.

While Rubio enjoyed a banner year in 2011 with five wins including an upset knockout over David Lemieux, the year also served as a breakthrough campaign for Cota. Chief among his highlights in ’11 was an 8th round stoppage win over former 154 lb. titlist Yori Boy Campas last November.

The win put Cota on the map as a prospect to watch for 2012. The 24- year old had other ideas, looking to advance from prospect to contender with a win on Saturday evening.

“El Veneno (Rubio’s nickname, which translates to ‘The Poisonous One’) is an opponent who has fought the best in the world,” Cota stated while sharing the podium with his future adversary. “I respect him as a boxer. I’m making my history (with this fight). I bring a good record and fighting a rival name that I want to overcome, to make it clear that I have aspirations in this sport.”

Jake Donovan is the Managing Editor of Boxingscene.com. Follow Jake on Twitter: @JakeNDaBox

Tags: Marco Antonio Rubio