Felix Verdejo and Nonito Donaire took part a media workout on Tuesday ahead of their respective bouts on the Top Rank promoted card of the MetroPCS Friday Night Knockout card on TruTV from the Roberto Clemente Coliiseum this Friday night.
Verdejo (18-0, 13 KOs), from San Juan, will be making his homecoming a 10-round defense of his WBO Latino lightweight title against Josenilson Dos Santos (25-3, 15 KOs), of Sao Paulo, Brasil, and Donaire (35-3, 23 KOs), from General Santos City, Philippines, who is on the cusp of another world title shot, will be challenging WBO International junior featherweight champion and No. 1 world-rated contender Cesar Juarez (17-3, 13 KOs), of Mexico City, in a 12-round rumble.
The four boxers boast a combined record of 95-9 (64 KOs) — a winning ratio of 91%, with 2/3 of their total victories coming by way of knockout.
Below is what Donaire and Verdejo had to say during their workouts
NONITO DONAIRE
“When I was down on the canvas in the Walters fight I thought to myself, ’this is a blessing.’ It was a blessing because I had lost my way, not giving boxing the respect it deserves. I was searching for something. I was unsatisfied. I went home and re-dedicated myself to the sport. I worked harder in the gym. I got out bed early in the mornings and did my running. I went to a Tony Robbins seminar for motivation and then read the book, The Power of Habits.
“My opponent is a tough guy and he is hungry like a wolf. My job is to beat the wolf. He’s actually ranked higher than me. He is No. 1 and I am No. 2.
“I must win on Friday night. I am out of setbacks.
“I feel like I am 21 again. My speed has increased. I can feel my power is much stronger. My happiness is back. I had a great camp.
“But I know what must be done.
“I must win.”
FELIX VERDEJO
“It was Felix “Tito” Trinidad who inspired me when I was a very young fighter. He has given me a lot of advice. We are friends and I hope Tito comes to the fight on Friday night.
“I have no pain in my hand. I feel great. I like to feel 100 percent when I get into the ring, so I waited until my hand was completely healed for this fight.
“I feel comfortable at 135 pounds and do not have a problem making that weight. I can make 130 pounds if my promoter Top Rank asks.
“This is a big fight card and I am in the main event. I think of all the sacrifices me and our team made to get here. All of the hard work in the gym has paid off.”
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