By Carlos Boogs
Former three division world champion Abner Mares (29-1-1 and 15 knockouts) confirms that a fight with Leo Santa Cruz (30-0-1 and 17 knockouts) has been verbally agreed upon for August 29th at Staples Center in Los Angeles, California. Premier Boxing Champions will showcase the fight on either ESPN or NBC.
The fight has been talked about for several years and was close to getting made when both fighters were under Golden Boy Promotions in 2013. But then Mares, a former three division world champion, suffered an unexpected first round knockout loss to Jhonny Gonzalez. Mares has won three in a row since.
The only thing remaining, says Mares, is a signature on the contract.
"I've already said yes for some time now and he said yes, and we only need to sign the contract and we're all set. In terms of the weight, I will not come down to 122 pounds, once the fight is confirmed Leo will move up," Mares told ESPN Deportes.
"Once confirmed - it's a fight that's going to be exciting, emotional, and it's personal. It has everything it takes to be a great fight. However, the winner will have a very large platform. Hopefully the fight will be as exciting as it sounds."
"I have nothing against the Leo as a man, but as a boxer it is personal because I want to prove that I'm the best. For some time Leo has been saying that he's better than me."