Following today’s final press conference, Canelo vs. Jacobs undercard fighters staged an open workout for fans at the MGM Resort and Casino. Those participating included Vergil Ortiz Jr. (12-0, 12 KOs), Mauricio "El Maestro" Herrera (24-8, 7 KOs), Joseph "JoJo" Diaz Jr. (28-1, 14 KOs), Freddy Fonseca (26-1-1, 17 KOs), Lamont Roach Jr. (18-0-1, 7 KOs), Jonathan “Polvo” Oquendo (30-5, 19 KOs), and Sadam “World Kid” Ali (27-2, 14 KOs). Canelo vs. Jacobs will take place on Saturday, May 4, 2019 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN. (photos by Amanda Wescott).
Below is what the fighters had to say at today's workout:
Vergil Ortiz, Super Lightweight Prospect
On fighting on the Canelo-Jacobs undercard: “This is a dream come true. I am Canelo’s co-main event. I am the only one who can say that, other than my opponent. But it’s just us and this is a big opportunity. I prepare for every fight like it will be my hardest fight. In fact, this probably will be my hardest fight, but I am ready to go. I am fighting in front of a bigger audience now that I am in the co-main event. Fighting on DAZN, a lot of people will be watching. I am excited for this opportunity. I am feeling good. I feel hyped up. Usually I am tired but I am not this time. It is weird. But I am ready to go.”
Mauricio Herrera, Welterweight Contender
On fighting on the Canelo-Jacobs undercard: “I have been here before, but it is always an honor to be on a Canelo undercard. And the co-main event is a blessing as you have more eyes on you. It is an honor to have this opportunity. What better spot than fighting on Cinco de Mayo weekend in Vegas, on the undercard of the biggest fight of the year? It’s amazing and I am excited for Saturday.”
On facing an undefeated fighter: “I have fought undefeated fighters. It might be a young lion against an old lion but we are two lions and we are going to go toe-to-toe. You will see this lion very hungry and you will see me go get it. He will be the aggressor and I will do my thing like I always do. I will pull out all of my tricks and get the win.”
Joseph Diaz Jr., Super Featherweight Contender
On fighting on the Canelo-Jacobs undercard: “It means a lot to me. I want to thank everyone who came out here for it. It is a huge weekend for us Latinos. I am so happy to be a part of this huge event. Viva Mexico, let’s get it, baby.
On trash talking leading up to this fight: “I really feel this way. I am on a whole different level. Last year I had two chances to be World Champion, but I didn’t get it. It is my ultimate goal to be a champion and I am ready. I feel a lot stronger at this weight class. Freddy tried to flinch at me and scare me yesterday, but I am a beast and I will show him that. Believe that.
On his preparation: “I am a lot stronger. I am more confident in my abilities now than I was before. Now I am on a different level. I am on that elite level, the level with guys like Tevin Farmer. I am ready. And this guy Freddy is good but he is not on my level and I am going to prove that on Saturday. Underestimate me with this hair color, it’s cool, because I will see him Saturday and show him who I am in the ring.”
Sadam Ali, Welterweight Contender
On his mindset going into his fight on Saturday: “I am excited, ready to perform. There is a mega fight coming this Saturday and I am excited to see what happens in the Canelo vs. Jacobs fight but first I will go put on a show and get a win. I know he is going to come prepared, but I have been preparing hard for this in the gym, too. I have been working on my speed and power because you can have all that power and speed, but you need to know how to use it. I am ready to go.”
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