Gary Shaw Productions presents, ESPN “Friday Night Fights” March 7th at the Pala Casino Spa and Resort in Pala, California. The card is headlined by the rejuvenated Russian warrior and top Lightweight contender, Rustam Nugaev as he takes on Mexico’s Marvin Quintero in a 10-round lightweight tilt. The bout will go a long way in deciding the next potential title challenger at 135lbs.
Nugaev (26-6-1, 16KOs) is riding a five fight win streak — four of which stem from his 2013 campaign — and has revived his career after not competing in 2012. He is certainly knocking on the door of a title shot and a win against Quintero (25-4, 21KOs), who is coming off a loss at the hands of IBF lightweight champion Miguel Vazquez, would propel him that much closer. Nugaev is currently ranked WBA # 3, WBC # 7 and IBF # 9.
Nugaev has been in the ring with some stiff competition and this stage should offer some familiarity. That advantage will make him dangerous. He defeated former undefeated Peruvian star, Jonathan Maicelo and Daniel Attah in 2013, both by knockout. His approach in the ring is somewhat unconventional, but he is always determined to make great fights and puts himself in a position to stop his opponents.
“Of course the goal is to reach the top of your division and I have never wanted anything more, but I don’t just want to win, I want to do it in a way that makes others take notice. Not to take anything away from winning a title because it is a huge accomplishment, but I want to win people’s respect while doing so. I want to destroy my competition and leave no doubt,” Nugaev said.
While the full card isn’t quite set, Gary Shaw is confident in the action provided thus far.
“You don’t have to appreciate boxing to enjoy the kind of excitement expected on March 7th, said Gary Shaw. “The main event involves two fighters that always come to fight. The style matchup will be pleasing to the fans. But the stakes are higher for both Rustam and Marvin, which makes me believe the degree of action could be raised as well.”
“Rustam Nugaev is on the fast track to the top of his division, he is fun to watch and I think we’ve matched him with the perfect opponent to display his full potential,” Shaw concluded.
