Erik Morales, David Diaz Ready For "War For 4"

By Joe Harrison

On Tuesday afternoon, three-time world champion Erik Morales and WBC lightweight champion David Diaz attended the press conference announcing “War For 4” in Chicago, IL. After Top Rank’s Bob Arum and Eight Count’s Dominic Pesoli presented their boxers, Morales and Diaz each took a moment to speak of their upcoming battle.

When Diaz stepped up to the podium, he explained his intention of keeping the 135-pound title.

“Thank you Erik for coming to Chicago. It’s going to be an honor fighting you. It will be a great fight. I’m not here to give up my belt.”

Diaz continued, “It’s my belt and he’s coming here to get it. He’s not taking it home; the belt is staying here in Chicago. I respect Erik for everything he’s done. It’s going to be a war, but it’s not going to be four.”

Then Morales reiterated his desire to be the first Mexican boxer to become a four-division champion.

“David, you don’t have to thank me for coming to Chicago. I want to beat you for the title in front of your home-town fans. I want this to be a fight for all fans to remember, and it will be. You will see an Erik Morales showing a lot of effort. That is all I have to say.”

It was also announced that Emanuel Lopez will face Ricardo Castillo on the undercard, and Julio Caesar Chavez Jr. will make his Chicago debut on the undercard as well.

“War For 4” will be televised live on Pay-Per-View from the Allstate Arena located outside Chicago on August 4th. Tickets will go on sale June 13th. The prices will be $300 for ringside, $200, $100, $50, and $30.