Lamont Roach has vowed to bring “old-school boxing back” when he takes on Issac “Pitbull” Cruz at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio on December 6.
Roach, 25-1-2 (10 KOs), shocked many when he fought the revered Gervonta Davis to a draw in a lightweight title fight in March. Davis dillydallied when it came to granting Roach a rematch and will instead embark on a pantomime-style adventure when he clashes with Jake Paul in an exhibition next month.
Roach, meanwhile, preferred to stick to the realms of real boxing and will rise in weight again for the clash with Cruz, set for 12 rounds at junior welterweight with the Mexican’s WBC interim trinket at stake.
If the belt is somewhat spurious, Cruz is the real deal. An established player in the 140lbs sweepstakes, one who last year halted Rolly Romero in eight rounds, the 27-year-old is excited to introduce Roach to his playground. “We’re definitely gonna give him an unfriendly welcome to the 140-pound division,” Cruz said. “I’m experienced in this division, but I’m not overlooking him just because he’s moving up in weight. I’m not gonna underestimate what he can do at this weight class... I'm gonna show him the way I showed Rolly.
“I know I can knock him out. He’s human and the punches hurt him just like anyone else. We’re gonna make sure that we accomplish that objective when the time comes.
“We know Roach is a great fighter who likes to take on challenges just like we do. He’s someone who can help me provide a great fight for the fans.”
The obvious respect was reciprocated. Roach explained that Cruz, 28-3-1 (18 KOs), had long been on his radar and the fight, which will be over 12 rounds, is the kind he needs to cement his reputation as “one of the best fighters in the world."
“Cruz is a hell of a fighter,” Roach said. “He’s explosive and he’s the kind of guy the fans love to see. I’m definitely a great dance partner to complement his style. Just be tuned in. It’s gonna be what you guys expect. I’m gonna win and it’s gonna be a great show.
"I love facing his style, because it plays right into my strengths. It’s gonna show on December 6. All I have to do is do what I know how to do and I’ll be victorious for sure.
"I’m gonna be strong as hell. I have less weight to cut and more room to work with. I’m in my physical prime right now and moving up in weight is another notch for me.
"I told everyone what I’m here to do. I want to bring old-school boxing back. Me accepting this fight with Cruz proves that I’m like that. I’m definitely gonna give you guys a banger.”
The PBC event will be broadcast live by Prime Video PPV.
