Peter Manfredo Jr, “HOMECOMING KING” PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES
Peter Manfredo, Jr.: “It’s been a long road back the past two years. I fought for the IBO super middleweight title but Sakio Bika was a lot stronger and bigger. I was too small (to fight as a super middleweight). Some of those guys weighed in at 168 but were a lot heavier for the fight. I sacrificed to get down to 160 and I’m coming back here as the IBO Middleweight Champion for all of my family, friends and fans. We’re going to put on a helluva show. Jimmy Burchfield has been very important to me and my career since I turned pro in 2003. I’m signed with DiBella Entertainment but fighting at home on Jimmy’s card. I wouldn’t have it any other way.
“Jhon Berrio’s a tough kid with 15 wins and 11 knockouts. I’ve been in with the best 168 pounders, nobody’s going to be beat me at 160. I have to get past November 12th but I plan to be fighting bigger and better fights. I’m 30 years old now. This is what I do – I’m a fighter — and everybody will see it November 12th.”
Joe Gardner: “This is going to be an exciting fight. It’s a match-up I didn’t think I’d see. Keith and I are kind of close in the gym. We’ve had some hardcore fights, wars in the gym.”
Keith Kozlin: “I really like fight at Twin River, it’s a beautiful place. Jimmy always puts on great fights there. I have a tough opponent. Joe Gardner’s always in shape, ready to fight. I’m training hard to put on a great fight.”
Aleksandra Magdziak Lopes: “I really appreciate getting a spot on this card. My opponent is fast, tall and coming off a good win. We’re going to put on a great show.”
Johnathan Vazquez: “I’ve had two fights for CES and I’m looking forward to my third. I’m in good shape and will bring it all out to put on a good show.”
Thomas Falowo: “It feels good to get a chance to step up (make his pro debut), especially in front of a home crowd. I’m ready to go.”
Odias Dumezil: “This is my first time in Providence. I’m training hard to give you a good show.”
Eric Estrada: “I want to thank the fire department (Estrada is a Providence Fire Fighter) for all of its support and to everybody helping me get ready at Big Six Academy. I’m 2-0 with two knockouts and on the 12th I plan to be 3-0. I’m in great shape, as always, and confident I’m will do what it takes to get another ‘w.’
Jesse Barboza (emailed message: “I am extremely excited and honored to share the stage with all of these admirable fighters. I have been preparing for this rematch since the minute I stepped out of the ring May 7th (lost a split decision to his Nov. 12th opponent Winston Thorpe). I promise that this fight will show every ounce of dedication, willpower and strength that I have as a fighter.”
Bill Mofford: “I haven’t fought for quite a while (April, 2004). My life got a little hectic – I had kids and bought a house – and boxing had to go. But I’m back bigger, better and smarter than before. I believe I can be a force in this business. I’ll give it everything I’ve got.”
