Today, at the Edison Ballroom in New York City, Sergio "Maravilla" Martinez (49-2-2, 28 KO's) and undefeated WBC Middleweight titleholder Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr. (46-0-1, 32 KO's) continued their media tour, building up their highly anticipated September 15th showdown scheduled at the historic Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. Martinez, 37, brings a 5-fight winning streak into the contest, while the 26-year-old Chavez, Jr. is coming off his most impressive professional win, a seventh-round stoppage against Andy Lee.
Lou Dibella, C.E.O. of Dibella Entertainment and promoter of Martinez, expressed his feelings about this fan-friendly, mega-fight occurring in a little more than two months.
"It took a half-hour to make the deal," declared Dibella. "If you decide to give the fans what they deserve, it's not rocket science. This is the best fight you can make in the middleweight division."
Fernando Beltran, President of Zanfer Promotions and member of Chavez' entourage, believes both men are clearly the two best middleweights in the world at the present time.
"On September 15th, the public is the winner of this fight," exclaimed Beltran.
Later, Beltran labeled Martinez a "clown" and Lou Dibella swiftly responded.
"We'll be the ones smiling after the 15th," said Dibella.
The legendary Julio Cesar Chavez, who turned 50-years-old today, also voiced his opinion on his son's opponent.
"I don't like his style," claimed Chavez Sr. "He's a runner. He (Martinez) talks a lot of bullshit and he'll have to eat his words on September 15th."
Before he gave his thoughts on Chavez Jr., Martinez noted he is dedicating this fight to Monique McClain, who he befriended after learning she was being harassed in school for her skin color and having a different hairstyle.
Then, he turned his attention to Chavez Jr.
"He finally said yes and won't run like a chicken," boasted Martinez.
After that, Chavez Jr. stepped up to the podium and mocked Martinez' style.
"I want to prove I am the best middleweight in the world," acknowledged Chavez. "Martinez has been dancing (a reference to Martinez appearing on Dancing with the Stars in Argentina). His only way to beat me is dancing. I think he found his real profession as a ballerina."
Chavez Jr. added, "I am glad he found another profession. After September 15th, he'll need to find something to do. I promise I will beat Martinez and it will be a great fight!"
Tickets for this middleweight blockbuster can be purchased now at the Thomas and Mack Center box office and Town Square Las Vegas Concierge, or on-line at www.unlvtickets.com. You can also acquire tickets by calling (702) 739-FANS. Tickets are priced at $600, $400, $200, $100, $75, $50, and $25.
