Fighters participating on Saturday’s Premier Boxing Champions on NBC card took part in the final press conference today at historic Fenway Park in Boston before their respective fights at Agganis Arena, with televised coverage starting at 4:30 p.m. ET/1:30 p.m. PT.
ANDRE DIRRELL
“A title means everything. It completes you as a fighter. That’s the top of the food chain in this sport, and that’s the pedestal we’re all trying to reach – world champion. Everybody wants to be a world champion. The greats had it and now we want it. It would mean more for my city, my family and my friends, and it’s something I’ll always be able to look back it. It would put me in the record books for life.
“DeGale is not quiet. Today he’s chilling, maybe because he’s a little out of his comfort zone. But there’s a lot of tension when you’re standing right there next to your opponent. He might just be a little cranky today.
“I like to lighten the mood and stay comfortable. This is all a part of the game. Let’s have fun now. It’s ass-kicking time when we get in that ring, but outside it’s all love.
“There was a time when I didn’t want to do interviews. I didn’t want to go to fights. I didn’t want to hear fans online and on social media. I closed all them down because I didn’t want to hear people ask, ‘When are you fighting again? Talking about talent wasted, or saying I’m glad he’s gone.’ It hurt because there was nothing I could do. I was powerless even with all the power in the world.”
JAMES DEGALE
“Andre says the belt doesn’t mean anything to him in the fight – well, the belt means everything to me and more. I am here to make history and it doesn’t happen without that title.
“I could win on Saturday night and retire a happy man – that’s how much I want to beat Andre Dirrell. But when I do win that title, I am going for the rest of the belts, creating a lasting legacy for my country, my fans and myself.
“Andre is a classy fighter and he showed in the press conference that he is a classy guy too – when two fighters who believe in their ability 100 percent and know they are going to win a fight, it is going to be explosive.
“There’s nothing but respect between us, but ultimately, we’re going to take each other to dark territory on Saturday night, it’s going to be a brutal battle – and one that I am going to win.”
EDWIN RODRIGUEZ
“This is home for me and I’m thrilled. I know I have a good undefeated fighter in front me, so I’m looking forward to a competitive matchup. It’s going to be a great fight for the fans.
“This is an exciting day for me. I saw Pedro Martinez pitch so many times here at Fenway and he’s going into the Hall of Fame. Also, my fellow countrymen Manny Ramirez and David Ortiz have made so much history here.
“Being here today and then having the weigh-in at Faneuil Hall tomorrow and fighting on Saturday, it’s just an amazing experience.
CRAIG BAKER
“This is a great opportunity for me. I’ve dreamed of fighting on a grand scale like this since I first started boxing.
“The entire experience has been awesome. It’s going to be an interesting fight. I’m going to keep coming forward. I’m going to keep boxing all night.
“Everyone should look forward to an action packed night, I know it’s going to be an interesting matchup.”
DANNY O’CONNOR
“A couple of years ago Ken Casey and I talked about bringing boxing back to the city of Boston. Fast-forward to today and we’re doing it.
“I’m excited to be part of it and to see boxing in Boston blossom. It’s good for the city and all the young boxers in this area.
“I know I have a tough opponent in front of me and I won’t take him lightly. I’m planning on putting on a show for the fans come Saturday night.”
CHRIS GILBERT
“I’m an aggressive come forward, in your face boxer from the first bell to the last.
“I was full steam ahead when I got the call for this fight. I train all the time, I don’t take breaks and I’m always looking for an opportunity. I couldn’t be happier.
“Danny O’Connor is one of the best in my weight division in New England. Everything he does, he does well.
“I just need to keep my head and continue to come forward, I can’t get frustrated. I’m going 100 percent the full way through. If I’m busy and I fight smart I get good outcomes.
